Call Us Today Estero, with its stunning coastline and access to the Gulf of Mexico, is a boater’s dream. However, this aquatic paradise can quickly turn dangerous when accidents occur on the water. If you’ve been hurt in a boating accident, you may be facing not only physical injuries but also emotional trauma and financial hardship.
Irresponsible boaters can easily cause others to get injured or die. Our Estero personal injury lawyers can help you hold them responsible and help you get compensation for their actions. We’re known as the 5-Star Law Firm for good reason.
At Viles & Beckman, we know how tragic boating accidents can be, between the cost of property damage to your vessel and the profound pain and suffering from boating injuries. Contact our boating accident lawyers in Estero now to learn how we can help you win your claim.
Common Types of Boating Accidents in Estero Waters
Here are some of the common types of boating accidents our lawyers have seen. If you have experienced any of these and got hurt, there is a good chance we can help you. Some of the most frequent accidents we see in Estero include:
- Collisions with Other Vessels
- Striking Submerged Objects
- Wake and Wave Accidents
- Weather Conditions
Once we know the cause of the accident, we can look at why it happened and learn who may have liability in your case. In the case of hitting a natural object or getting injured by a sudden storm, someone may still be liable for not paying attention.
- Operator inexperience: Many accidents occur due to a lack of proper training or familiarity with local waterways.
- Alcohol use: Drinking and driving isn’t just for cars. Operating a boat while DUI is illegal and extremely dangerous.
- Equipment failure: Poorly maintained vessels or faulty machinery can lead to unexpected accidents.
- Weather conditions: Sudden storms or strong currents are common in Southwest Florida and can catch boaters off guard.
- Distracted operation: Just like on the road, distractions on the water can have deadly consequences.
Expect More, Receive More: Legal Support That Feels Like Family
Our Boating Accident Attorneys in Estero See Many Catastrophic Boating Injuries
In some ways, boating accidents are far more dangerous than car crashes. There are many more ways to be injured severely. Boats have few safety features. Some of the boating accident injuries we’ve seen in our clients include:
- Drowning and near-drowning
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Fractures and orthopedic injuries
- Lacerations and soft tissue injuries
Getting full compensation for these injuries can be difficult, but it can be done with the help of a lawyer. Viles & Beckman will work hard behind the scenes to discover who is liable, what insurance policies may cover you, and the value of your damages while you recover.
With that information, we can build a strong compensation case and begin negotiations for the true value of your claim. Our firm is not afraid to go to court if the insurers refuse to pay what you’re owed.
What if I’m Partially at Fault?
Boating accidents often involve multiple parties. We’ll work diligently to identify all potentially responsible entities, which may include:
- The boat operator
- The boat owner
- Equipment manufacturers
- Rental companies
- Other passengers who contributed to the accident
Florida now follows a modified comparative negligence system after a tort reform in 2023. Under this ruling, you can still get compensation if you are 50% or less at fault. If you are over this amount, you are at fault and cannot get compensation.
If you are partially at fault, your compensation will be reduced by your proportion of fault. For example, if you win $100,000 but are 25% at fault, you will only get $75,000. Without a lawyer, an insurer may use this law against you so they can pay as little as possible.
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Why Choose Viles & Beckman for Your Estero Boating Accident Case?
At Viles & Beckman, we bring more than 40 years of combined experience to your case. Here’s what you can expect when you work with our law firm:
- Knowledge of local laws: Our boating accident attorneys in Estero understand the risks of operating a boat in Estero and how it can go wrong.
- Proven success: We’ve recovered over $100 million for our clients.
- Personalized attention: Part of the reason we’re the 5-Star Law Firm is that we treat every case with the care and attention it deserves.
- No upfront costs: We work on a contingency fee basis.
- Military and first responder discount: We offer a 10% discount on attorney’s fees for active and veteran military members and active first responders.
Click To ContactTake Action Now to Protect Your Rights
If you or a loved one has been injured in a boating accident, don’t try to pursue compensation alone. Contact Viles & Beckman today for a free consultation and case evaluation with our Estero boating accident lawyers.
The sooner you reach out, the better we can protect your rights and build a strong case. Call Viles & Beckman now or fill out our online contact form to schedule your free consultation. Don’t let a boating accident derail your life – trust in The 5-Star Law Firm to guide you to safety.
Call or text (239) 334-3933 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
