Boat Accident Attorneys

Boat Accidents

$11 Million

Car Accident

$4.4 Million

Motorcycle Accident

$4.3 Million

Car Accident

$2.6 Million

Motorcycle Accident

$1.4 Million

Motorcycle Accident

Practice Areas

Workers' Compensation

I had a great experience with Rue and Ziffra. They were keeping me updated all the time answering all my questions.

Kyle Farnell

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Thanks for all your help! They were able to get me a nice settlement and were super easy to work with!

Aimee Anselmi

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My experience with Rue & Ziffra was absolutely amazing. I'm glad I chose this firm to handle my case.

Martina Jackson

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I was super happy and satisfied with Rue and Ziffra. They exceeded my expectations and I appreciate them...

Dana Bailey

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Frequently Asked Questions

Are boat owners required to have liability insurance?

No, although it is highly recommended, boat insurance is not mandatory in Florida. Unfortunately, this means that many boat operators are uninsured. If the boater who hit you is insured, we can seek to recover your accident-related losses from his or her insurance company. If not, we will need to explore other options for protecting your legal rights.

What are my options if I was hit by a boater who was uninsured?

If the boater who hit you was uninsured, you still have several potential options for recovering the financial compensation you deserve. One option is to sue the boat owner directly. Maybe the boat owner’s insurance lapsed, or maybe the boat owner did not realize that he or she was uninsured.

Another option is to file a claim against your uninsured boater policy (if you have one). Due to the risk of being hit by an uninsured or underinsured boater, this insurance is a good idea. If you have it, we can deal with your insurance company to make sure you receive the maximum payout available under the terms of your policy.

A third option is to file a claim against a third party. This could be the manufacturer of a defective boat or defective piece of safety equipment, or perhaps another boater involved in the accident. When we take your case, we will quickly launch a thorough investigation, and we will identify all potential sources of financial recovery.

What are “navigable waters,” and how can the location of my accident impact my claim for compensation?

Boating accidents present many unique legal issues, one of which involves determining what body of law applies. While Florida has boating laws that make it unlawful to operate a boat dangerously, these laws only apply to vessels operating “upon the waters of this state.”

On navigable waters and the open ocean, different laws apply. Depending upon exactly where your accident occurred, federal statutes, general maritime and admiralty laws, and even international conventions or treaties may dictate your legal rights. At Rue & Ziffra Law Offices, we are intimately familiar with the unique jurisdictional issues involved in boating accident cases – so regardless of where your accident occurred, we can do what is necessary to protect you.

What are my rights if I was injured onboard a cruise ship?

If you were injured on board a cruise ship, sorting out the jurisdictional issues we mentioned above will be the first step toward assessing your legal rights. You should also look at your ticket and make sure you understand what you are legally obligated to do to pursue a claim for financial compensation.

While each case is different, generally speaking, if you have been injured on a cruise ship you may be entitled to compensation for:

Medical costs
Out-of-pocket expenses
Loss of income
Pain, suffering, and emotional trauma
Other financial and non-financial losses

A boat speeding across a lake in Florida, illustrating Rue & Ziffra's expertise in handling boating accident cases.

Your Trusted Boat Accident Attorneys in Florida

Florida’s sparkling waters offer unparalleled boating pleasure, yet they also pose risks that can lead to serious accidents. At Rue & Ziffra, our boat accident attorneys are well-versed in the challenges and complexities that arise from boating accidents in Volusia and Flagler counties. With a deep commitment to our community and an extensive track record of securing financial compensation for accident victims, we are your dedicated allies in navigating the aftermath of boating accidents.

Understanding the Risks on Florida’s Waters

The allure of Florida’s Atlantic coast is undeniable, but it’s important to be aware of the risks. The United States Coast Guard reports over 4,100 boating accidents annually, a significant number of which result in severe injuries or fatalities. From collisions with other vessels to capsizing incidents, the potential for danger is vast, emphasizing the need for experienced legal representation.

Common Boating Accidents in Florida

Our extensive experience covers a wide range of boating accidents, including:

Collisions: With vessels, fixed objects, or swimmers.
Capsizing and Overboard Incidents: Leading causes of boating-related fatalities.
Jet Ski Accidents: Where inexperience or recklessness can quickly escalate into serious accidents.
Water Skiing, Swimming, and Diving Mishaps: Where boaters’ negligence can result in injuries.

Factors Leading to Boating Accidents

We’ve identified several key factors contributing to boating accidents:

Alcohol Use and Operator Inattention: Impairment and distraction are leading causes of accidents.
Inadequate Maintenance and Equipment: Highlighting the importance of proper upkeep and appropriate gear.
Weather Conditions: Underestimating weather conditions can lead to accidents.
Speeding and Recklessness: Dangerous behaviors that significantly increase the risk of accidents.

Why Choose Rue & Ziffra?

Decades of Experience: Since 1976, we’ve represented victims in boating accident cases with a deep understanding of local laws and regulations.
Comprehensive Legal Support: Whether your accident involved a personal watercraft, a rented boat, or occurred during a recreational activity like water skiing, our team is prepared to assist.
Proven Track Record: Our success in securing compensation for medical bills, lost income, and emotional trauma speaks to our commitment to our clients.

Navigating Your Boating Accident Claim

Rue & Ziffra is dedicated to ensuring that victims of boating accidents receive the justice and compensation they deserve. We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll these accidents can take on individuals and families. If you’ve been involved in a boating accident in Florida, our team is here to provide the expert legal guidance and support you need.

Contact us today to discuss your case and learn how we can help you on your journey to recovery. With Rue & Ziffra, you’re not just hiring an attorney; you’re gaining a team of advocates committed to your well-being.

Boat Accident Attorneys

Boat Accidents

$11 Million

$4.4 Million

$4.3 Million

$2.6 Million

$1.4 Million

What's your case worth?

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Practice Areas

Kyle Farnell

Aimee Anselmi

Martina Jackson

Dana Bailey

Frequently Asked Questions

Are boat owners required to have liability insurance?

What are my options if I was hit by a boater who was uninsured?

What are “navigable waters,” and how can the location of my accident impact my claim for compensation?

What are my rights if I was injured onboard a cruise ship?

Your Trusted Boat Accident Attorneys in Florida

Understanding the Risks on Florida’s Waters

Common Boating Accidents in Florida

Factors Leading to Boating Accidents

Why Choose Rue & Ziffra?

Navigating Your Boating Accident Claim