Boating accidents in Bonita Springs are more than just statistics – they’re life-altering events that can leave victims grappling with physical injuries, emotional trauma, and financial burdens. An unexpected accident on the water can leave you unsure about what to do next.
That’s where we come in. At Viles & Beckman, we’re not just lawyers – we’re your neighbors, fellow boating enthusiasts, and fierce advocates for justice. Our boating accident lawyers in Bonita Springs will help you with your case.
If you have been harmed in a boating accident or lost a loved one because of one, it’s time to contact our personal injury lawyers in Bonita Springs. The 5-Star Law Firm can help you get compensation for what you’ve suffered so you can move on after your boat accident.
Why Choose Viles & Beckman for Your Bonita Springs Boating Accident Case?
You need a law firm that combines legal skills with a deep understanding of local waterways and maritime laws. You also need a compassionate law firm that listens to your story with empathy and will take your case as far as necessary. Here’s why Viles & Beckman should be your choice:
- Local knowledge: We understand the waterways of Bonita Springs and where accidents may occur.
- Proven track record: With over $100 million recovered for our clients, we have the experience and confidence to help you.
- Personal attention: We give you the five-star law firm experience you deserve.
- No upfront costs: You pay nothing unless we win your case.
- Military and first responder discount: We offer a 10% discount on attorney’s fees for active and veteran military members and active first responders.
Expect More, Receive More: Legal Support That Feels Like Family
How Our Bonita Springs Boating Accident Lawyers Will Find All Liable Parties
An insurance claim or a lawsuit blames someone for your injuries and demands money to pay for them. In other words, you’re claiming someone else is liable. In a boating accident, there may be several liable parties:
- Boat operators
- Boat owners
- Equipment manufacturers
- Rental companies
- Other passengers who contributed to the accident
When you hire us as your lawyer, our team will investigate what happened and gather evidence. Once we know who is legally responsible for harming you, we can start calculating your case’s worth and how the liable parties can pay you for your suffering. The evidence we may gather includes the following:
- Accident reports and police records
- Witness statements
- Medical records documenting your injuries
- Photographic and video evidence from the scene
- Depositions and records from you that detail your experience.
By building a strong case demonstrating negligence, we increase your chances of securing fair compensation for your injuries and losses.
What Happens If You’re Partially at Fault for the Boating Accident?
Florida follows a modified comparative negligence system, a recent update to the older pure comparative negligence system. If you’ve been injured in Florida, you must know about this law change under HB 837, passed in 2023.
Under this system:
- If you’re less than 50% responsible for the accident, you can still recover damages, but your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
- If you’re found to be 50% or more at fault, you’re barred from recovering any compensation.
For example, if you’re awarded $200,000 in damages but found to be 20% at fault, your compensation would be reduced to $160,000. Losing compensation to this law can put you at risk of not getting enough to cover your needs.
That’s why it’s vital to have a boating accident attorney in Bonita Springs to fight for you. Without one, it will be difficult to counter insurers’ claims that you share responsibility. Let us fight for you to maximize your financial recovery while you heal from your injuries.
This system makes it crucial to have skilled legal representation to minimize your assigned percentage of fault and maximize your potential recovery.
Bonita Springs
Boating Accident
Lawyer Near Me
(239) 334-3933
Recoverable Damages in a Bonita Springs Boating Accident Claim
When you’re injured in a boating accident due to someone else’s negligence, the law recognizes your right to seek compensation for your losses. The most immediate and tangible losses are often economic damages. These cover medical expenses, lost wages, lost earning capacity, property damage, and more.
The law also acknowledges an accident’s less tangible but equally significant impacts. These are known as non-economic damages. Pain and suffering damages compensate you for your physical discomfort and emotional distress. Other examples are loss of enjoyment of life or loss of consortium.
In particularly egregious cases where the at-fault party’s behavior was grossly negligent or intentionally harmful, you may be entitled to punitive damages. Unlike the other damages meant to make you whole, punitive damages punish the wrongdoer and deter similar reckless behavior in the future.
Statute of Limitations for Boating Accident Claims in Florida
Florida has recently updated its statute of limitations for personal injury cases, including boating accidents. You now have two years from the date of the incident to file your claim. This shortened time frame makes it even more critical to seek legal help as soon as possible after an accident.
Failing to file within this two-year window could result in losing your right to seek compensation. The sooner you contact a boating accident attorney in Bonita Springs, the more time they’ll have to work on your claim before the deadline forces them to file a lawsuit.
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Take Action with Viles & Beckman
Don’t let the wake of a boating accident capsize your future. Reach out to Viles & Beckman today for a free, no-obligation consultation. As The 5-Star Law Firm, we bring over 40 years of combined experience to your case and a track record of recovering over $100 million for our clients.
The journey to justice starts with a single step. Contact our Bonita Springs boating accident attorneys now to schedule your free consultation.
Call or text (239) 334-3933 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form