Bernstein & Maryanoff

Florida Boating Accident Lawyers
Discussing Leading Boating Violations

Boating accidents occur regularly in Florida, and when they do they are often not only the result of negligence or recklessness by at least one of the drivers of the vessels, but they also generally involve violations of Florida's boating regulations. Below you'll find an overview of the leading boating violations cited in Florida, and if you or someone you love has been harmed on the water, seek the help of experienced Florida boating accident attorneys as soon as possible.

Negligent Operation of a Vessel

Florida authorities cite an average of almost 1,000 people every year for negligent operation of a vessel. This citation is common not only because negligence occurs on the waters of the state regularly, but because this particular citation involves several different types of problematic conduct. Basically, anyone who makes mistakes that put themselves, their passengers or anyone nearby in danger can be cited for this violation.

Safety Equipment and Regulations

In addition to negligent operation of a vessel, citations regarding safety equipment and following safety regulations are also extremely common. In fact, more than 5,000 such citations are issued every year, and these citations are issued for such problems as failing to have life jackets on board, the failure of the boat's driver and/or passengers to wear life jackets and the failure to adhere to even the most basic safety regulations on the water that include adhering to the rules regarding right-of-way.

Alcohol and Drugs

Citations for using alcohol and drugs on Florida boats are usually charged as crimes, and no one needs a reminder as to how dangerous it is to mix these intoxicants with the process of navigating a vessel on the water. Approximately 300 of these problems arise with Florida authorities every year, and these constitute only those boaters who are actually caught engaging in this reckless conduct.

Overall, any number of different violations of boating regulations can occur at any time in Florida. The most problematic nature of these violations is that they often lead to Florida boating accidents, which is why they are enforced in the first place. While enforcement of these regulations helps to curb accidents, they do not prevent them, as hundreds occur every year somewhere in the state.

If you or someone you love has been harmed in a Florida boating accident, you need to seek the help of experienced Florida boating accident lawyers who have been successfully fighting for the rights of those harmed on the water for many years. Contact Bernstein & Maryanoff today to schedule a free initial consultation.