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Florida boating accident most serious in recent history

On Behalf of | Jul 12, 2014 | Boating Accidents |

A boating accident on Independence Day which took the life of a 23-year-old man in Biscayne Bay is a reminder of the risks of boaters face on the water. The accident reportedly occurred when the boat on which the man was riding—along with his girlfriend and her family—was struck by another craft. As a result of the impact four people were killed, making it the most serious boating accident to have occurred in some time.

The crash occurred at 10:45 p.m. after a fireworks display, so visibility may have been a factor. Police said they found alcohol aboard the boat responsible for the crash, but it hasn’t been determined whether alcohol was a cause of the crash. Results of toxicology tests are still pending. In addition to the four deaths, four others were injured. A total of 20 people were involved in the crash. 

Boating accidents can and do occur all the time, for a variety of reasons. In some cases, accidents occur because boaters fail to follow established safety rules. This can include boating in restricted areas, operating a vessel under the influence of alcohol, or operating a vessel negligently. That latter includes offenses like reckless or careless operation of a vessel and violating navigation rules. Boaters, of course, are expected to be informed of these rules and to follow them for their own good and the safety of others.

Those who are harmed because of a boater’s negligence have the right to seek recovery for injuries. In pursuing such cases, it is important to work with an experienced attorney to ensure the best possible outcome in the case. 

Source: New York Daily News, “Long Island man among 4 killed in Florida Fourth of July boat accident,” Philip Caulfield, July 10, 2014.Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, “2013 Violation Summary,” Accessed July 12, 2014.