When a boating accident causes serious injury or death, the damages can be considerable. Between medical expenses, property damage, and lost wages, the financial impacts may quickly become overwhelming. If the accident results in a death, no financial settlement can undo the loss, but fair compensation can help cover funeral costs and provide dependents with a measure of financial stability. Lake County boat accident trials often focus on proving negligence and demonstrating the full extent of these losses, which is crucial to pursuing the compensation you and your family need.
If you were involved in a boating accident that was someone else’s fault, contact our dedicated boat accident attorneys today for a free consultation.
Assigning Fault in Boat Accidents
Florida uses a modified comparative negligence system (Florida Statutes § 768.81). This means an injured party can recover damages only if they are 50% or less at fault. If they are found more than 50% at fault, they will not be eligible to seek damages. If awarded, those damages will be reduced by the percentage they were at fault. For example, someone who is 20% responsible for an accident would get $80,000 if there were $100,000 in damages.
In order to assign this fault, investigators, which may include law enforcement officers, insurance agents, and legal teams, will carefully examine the situation for evidence. They will use this evidence to illustrate negligence.
Boating accidents in Lake County often involve complex investigations because multiple parties could share fault. Waterways are not always clearly marked, making it difficult to ensure compliance with navigation rules. Both boat operators involved in a crash could be found partially negligent.
Boating accidents may also be caused by defective parts, such as engine malfunction or steering failure. In these cases, those found negligent may also include a manufacturer or mechanic.
Going to Trial for a Boating Accident
There are many reasons a boating accident case may need to go to trial in Lake County. If there is debate about who is at fault (and by what percentage), going to court may be necessary to come to a conclusion. In these cases, a lawyer will help gather evidence to represent their client and help assign fault to the other party or parties involved. They will use the courtroom to present this evidence to convince a jury.
Even when fault has been agreed upon, a boating accident case may go to trial if a settlement agreement cannot be reached. Insurance companies will try to settle for the least amount possible, and if they refuse to make a fair offer that covers all losses, the injured party or the family of someone who was killed in a boating accident may choose to take the case to trial.
Trials are most common when there are serious, life-debilitating accidents or death involved. In these cases, adequate compensation can require high settlement offers that insurance companies are less likely to extend without a court order.
Experienced Representation for Boat Accident Lake County Trials
When you call our office, we take a hands-on approach to your case. You will get personal attention throughout the entire process, and our experienced team is ready to answer any questions you have.
Lake County boat accident trials can be confusing and complex, and you deserve an attorney who is going to fight for a fair settlement and listen to your needs. Contact us today for a free consultation.
