Boat Accident Attorney in Miami, Florida

Experienced Maritime Lawyer

At Scolaro Law, our maritime accident lawyers relentlessly overcome legal hurdles to ensure our clients receive the compensation they deserve. We fight for justice in every case, no matter how challenging.

Were You Injured in a Boating Accident? Scolaro Law is Here to Help You Win the Compensation You Deserve

After a boating or maritime accident, it may feel like an impossible task to find the right lawyer—someone who truly understands the complexities of maritime law and, just as importantly, someone who will fight relentlessly for your recovery. Scolaro Law’s team has over 100 years of cumulative experience doing just that. With over $500 million recovered for our clients, Tom Scolaro brings the experience, dedication, and compassion to guide you through the most challenging moments of your life. If you have been searching for a firm you can trust, you have found it. Let us take it from here.

25 Years of Boat Accident Litigation Experience

Against Boat Operators, Tour Companies, and Equipment Manufacturers

Scolaro Law has earned a distinguished reputation for handling boating and maritime accident cases that few other firms can rival. As a Florida-based firm, we possess the legal skills and resources to litigate boating and maritime injury claims against all significant responsible parties, regardless of where the incident occurred. Boating and maritime injury claims are governed by a complex web of local, state, and maritime laws. Our commitment to excellence and proven track record allow us to secure maximum recovery for our clients while providing unwavering support throughout their cases.

Top Boating and Maritime Accident Attorney in Florida

With Over $500 Million Won in Verdicts and Settlements

Attorney Thomas Scolaro and his team at Scolaro Law have earned a reputation for their unwavering commitment to securing justice for victims of boating and water-related accidents. With a deep understanding of the complexities involved in maritime law, Scolaro Law has handled numerous high-profile cases, ranging from jet ski collisions to fatal parasailing incidents and boating accidents. With offices in Miami and Key West, Scolaro Law is strategically positioned to best handle Florida-based boating and maritime accidents for injured clients who fell victim to someone else’s negligence or recklessness on the water.

Whether dealing with negligent rental companies, reckless boat operators, or parasailing companies failing to maintain safety protocols, Scolaro Law is committed to holding all responsible parties accountable and ensuring injured parties receive the justice and compensation they deserve.

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Boating and Maritime Accidents We Provide Legal Assistance For

Scolaro Law has over 25 years of experience handling a variety of boating and maritime personal injury accidents, including:

Boat Collisions

Boat collisions are among the most devastating maritime accidents, often resulting in severe injuries or fatalities. At Scolaro Law, we work to hold negligent boat operators and other responsible parties accountable for their actions.

Propeller Injuries

Propeller injuries frequently cause permanent disabilities or fatalities, often due to a lack of safeguards or reckless operation. Our firm works tirelessly to seek justice for victims and hold operators and manufacturers responsible.

Jet Ski Accidents 

Jet ski accidents, often caused by reckless operation, defective equipment, or inadequate training, can result in catastrophic injuries. We help victims navigate the legal process to secure the compensation they deserve.

Parasailing Accidents

Negligent operators, poorly maintained equipment, or violations of safety regulations frequently cause parasailing accidents. Our team of lawyers ensures that these operators are held accountable for their disregard for passenger safety.

Wake Zone Accidents

Wake zones are meant to protect swimmers and vessels, yet violations often lead to serious injuries and collisions. We advocate for victims and pursue claims against those who fail to follow these critical safety measures.

Drowning Accidents

Drowning is one of the most tragic outcomes of maritime accidents, often caused by inadequate safety measures or lack of supervision. At Scolaro Law, our team fights for families to seek justice for these avoidable tragedies.

Paddleboarding Accidents

Paddleboarding accidents, whether from collisions or improper instruction, are often preventable. We work to hold negligent parties accountable and help victims recover from their losses.

Snorkeling Accidents

Improper guidance, faulty equipment, or hazardous conditions can turn a snorkeling into a life-threatening event. At Scolaro Law, we hold negligent tour operators and equipment providers accountable to ensure victims receive the justice they deserve.

Diving Incidents 

Scuba diving incidents and accidents, including decompression sickness or drowning, often occur due to operator negligence or faulty equipment. Our team ensures dive operators and instructors are held responsible when safety protocols and proper training are overlooked.

Floats and Water Park Accidents

Inflatable floats, water slides, and other floating water park features can cause serious injuries if the equipment is defective or supervision is lacking. We fight for victims of these preventable accidents to obtain the compensation they need to recover.

Boat Tour Accidents

Boat tour accidents often stem from poorly maintained vessels or reckless operators, leaving victims with catastrophic injuries like spinal damage. Scolaro Law stands ready to advocate for those injured in these incidents, holding operators accountable for their negligence.

Cruise Ship Litigation

Cruise ship injuries are a staple in Scolaro Law’s personal injury practice. Whether an injury occurs on board or during a shore excursion, our team works to hold cruise lines accountable for their failure to protect passengers from harm.

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Alcohol-Related Boating Accidents

Alcohol is a leading cause of boating accidents, impairing operators’ judgment and reaction times. When intoxicated boat operators put others at risk, our team ensures they are held accountable for the harm caused.

Falls on Boats

Falls on boats frequently result from slippery decks or sudden movements caused by operator negligence. At Scolaro Law, we work to hold boat operators responsible for maintaining safe conditions and minimizing risks to passengers.

If you have been involved in any of these situations, our experienced legal team is here to help. Contact us today for a free consultation.

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Justice We Have Obtained for Our Boating Accident Clients

Highlight Cases

Through these landmark results, Tom Scolaro has pioneered the personal injury legal field. Over the years, he has achieved more than a dozen 7-figure recoveries for victims and their families affected by boating and maritime accidents.

View All Case Results

Parasailing Accident

$17 Million

A young man lost his life during a parasailing accident in Key West when the captain recklessly proceeded with the excursion in dangerous weather. The towline broke, causing the parasail to plummet into the water. Scolaro secured a $17 million judgment for the victim’s family.

Parasailing Accident

$15 Million

In the same parasailing accident, Scolaro obtained a $15 million judgment for the man’s girlfriend, who suffered significant injuries during the incident.

Jet Ski Accident

$2.9 Million

A young woman was fatally struck from behind by another jet ski in Key West. Despite defenses of lack of duty and comparative negligence, Tom Scolaro successfully secured a $2.9 million settlement for the victim’s family.

Boating Accident

$1.7 Million

In a tragic boating incident in the Florida Keys, a young child snorkeling was fatally injured when struck by a boat operated by a 6th grader. The wrongful death lawsuit resulted in a $1.7 million settlement.

Parasailing Accident

$2.5 Million

A parasailing accident caused by operator error and severe weather conditions led to a $2.5 million settlement for the victim.

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What Damages are Available to Injured Clients Involved in a Boating Accident?

Medical Bills

Boating accidents often result in serious injuries that require immediate and ongoing medical care. Compensation for medical bills includes coverage for past and future treatments, surgeries, rehabilitation, and any specialized medical equipment needed for recovery.

Lost Wages

Injuries sustained in boating accidents can result in time away from work and lost income. We work to recover compensation for your lost wages and any future earning capacity diminished by your injuries.

Pain and Suffering

The physical pain and emotional toll of a boating accident can have a profound impact on your quality of life. We fight to secure monetary compensation that reflects the suffering and distress you have experienced as a result of your injuries.

Long-Term Disability

If your injuries result in a permanent disability, you may face significant physical changes requiring long-term care, rehabilitation, or modifications to your home or vehicle. Our team is committed to ensuring you receive the financial resources necessary to address these permanent damages.

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Partner With A Top Florida Personal Injury Attorney

Key Elements of Boating Accidents: What You Need to Know

Determining which law applies to your personal injury claim following a boating accident in Florida can be complex. The jurisdiction typically depends on the accident’s location and the boating activity involved.

Does Federal Maritime Law Apply to Your Personal Injury Case?

Federal maritime law is likely to apply if your boating accident happened on navigable waters used for interstate or foreign commerce. This includes collisions between commercial vessels, accidents on cruise ships, or incidents on waterways like bays, rivers, and inlets connected to the ocean. Our maritime attorneys can guide you through the complexities of federal regulations governing these cases.

When Florida State Law Governs Boating Accidents

Recreational boating accidents in non-commercially navigable waters, such as lakes, rivers, or inshore coastal areas, typically fall under Florida state law. These incidents often involve jet skis, pontoon boats, or other recreational watercraft. Scolaro Law’s skilled boat accident attorneys can help you navigate Florida’s boating laws to seek fair compensation.

The Overlap Between Maritime and State Laws

Federal maritime law and international treaties can influence your case even if Florida state law applies. For example, U.S. Coast Guard safety regulations apply to all vessels, regardless of location or purpose. Florida also enforces its own maritime laws, providing additional protections and remedies for victims of boating accidents.

Why You Need an Experienced Boat Accident Lawyer

Navigating the legal complexities of a boating accident requires an experienced attorney. Whether your claim falls under state law, federal maritime law, or a combination of both, a qualified boat accident lawyer ensures your rights are protected. It helps you secure the compensation you deserve. By partnering with Scolaro Law, you gain a team of tireless advocates who can navigate these complexities and help you win your case. 

Contact Scolaro Law Today

Your Partner in Navigating Maritime Law

How Scolaro Law Handles Your Maritime and Boating Lawsuit

Boating accidents involve an intricate combination of local, state, and federal regulations addressing negligence, vessel safety, and maritime insurance. Scolaro Law provides skilled legal representation for all water-related maritime accidents. For the past 25 years, Tom Scolaro has earned the respect of his peers and the trust of clients and referral attorneys alike.

Relentlessly Fight for Your Rights

Ready to Take Your Case to Trial

Use Top Maritime and Medical Experts

Maintains Open Communication & Keeps You Informed

What Our Clients Are Saying

“My family and I are extremely blessed to have had Tom and his team represent us during the most difficult time of our lives.”

Tom’s tireless work ethic was evident, revealed to us through constant communication and updates throughout the lengthy process. Tom handled our case as I would have handled it, if I had his legal expertise, with relentless determination, ferociousness, professionalism and integrity. That being said, his kindness, compassion and transparent genuine dedication to me and my family showed in every interaction. For whomever is reading this, and is considering being represented by him and his team, I will leave you with this, making this decision can and will alter the trajectory of your life. It has for me and my family, I wish you well, choose wisely.

Fran

What Our Clients Are Saying

“Highly Talented, Honest, Compassionate Lawyer”

My wife suffered a serious injury when we were visiting Miami. We hired an injury lawyer who failed to get us a satisfactory settlement after many months. We transferred our case to Tom and his team. Tom, Renaud and the rest of the team care deeply about their clients and go far beyond the client/attorney relationship. Our experience with Tom and Renaud was very satisfactory from the first moment we consulted with Tom. Tom and Renaud always responded quickly and effectively to all our questions. They did a brilliant work investigating and researching evidence, interviewing witnesses, and preparing for mediation. Tom hired a professional photographer to produce a short documentary video to highlight the amount of pain and suffering which my wife and every member of our family have suffered due to the injury. This video in addition to the many talents of Tom have ensured the satisfactory settlement which we got. Tom helped us to achieve a very satisfactory settlement, which was more than double what our first attorney managed to negotiate. The amount of investigation and research which Tom and Renaud put in our case was unbelievable. The way and strategy that Tom used to negotiated with the insurance company was amazing. Tom is an honest, compassionate, and extremely talented attorney, and above all he is a great negotiator. I would highly recommend him, and his amazing team, to anyone who needs a personal injury lawyer. 

O.R.

What Our Clients Are Saying

“I would highly recommend Scolaro Law to anyone that needs someone on their side.”

Tom and his whole team were great. My suit took a long time, and they explained and guided me through every step. They were patient and kind, and made sure it was as easy for me as they possibly could. They didn’t just care about how much of a settlement they could get; they cared about the bottom dollar for Me. They didn’t just work the case; they understood it. Their knowledge of the legal system, what works and what doesn’t, is hard to find. I would highly recommend Scolaro Law to anyone that needs someone on their side.

Maria

What Our Clients Are Saying

“It was truly a pleasure to work with all the team of Scolaro Law.”

From our very first consultation, Thomas Scolaro was knowledgeable, compassionate, and genuinely invested in my case. Tom and his legal assistant Barbie took the time to explain every step of the legal process, ensuring I fully understood my options and potential outcomes. They were always prompt in responding to any questions or concerns I had, making me feel supported and well-informed throughout. Thomas’s expertise and dedication truly showed in the handling of my case. He fought tirelessly to achieve the best possible result, and thanks to hard work of all Scolaro law team, the outcome exceeded my expectations. It was clear that the team not only knew the law inside and out but also genuinely cared about my well-being. If you’re looking for a professional, compassionate, and highly skilled attorney, I wholeheartedly recommend Thomas Scolaro and I am grateful to have had him by my side.

Nataliia

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Common Questions About Boating Accident Lawsuits

A boating accident occurs when a watercraft incident leads to injuries, fatalities, or property damage. These incidents can include capsizing, collisions with other boats, swimmers, or objects, and accidents caused by hazardous conditions on the water. In general, any situation where someone is hurt or a vessel is damaged on the water qualifies as a boating accident.

While hiring an attorney after a boating accident is not legally required, doing so can significantly improve the outcome of your case. A skilled attorney has the experience to investigate the causes of the accident, assess the full extent of your losses, and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf. They can also help you avoid common mistakes that might reduce your compensation. At Scolaro Law, we focus on handling the complexities of maritime law with force, honesty, and transparency so our clients can focus on recovering.

Boating accidents can result from various factors, often human error and environmental conditions. Some common causes include distracted or reckless operation, operating a boat under the influence of alcohol or drugs, and inexperience behind the wheel. Additional factors, such as adverse weather, mechanical failure, boat overload, or insufficient safety equipment, can exacerbate risks on the water. Florida’s unpredictable weather and busy waterways make boat operators need to remain vigilant and prepared.

Boating accidents often result in serious injuries due to the unique hazards of being on the water. Drowning is a leading cause of fatalities, but other injuries can include hypothermia, burns, lacerations, broken bones, spinal cord damage, and head trauma. Victims may also experience long-term effects like permanent scarring or disabilities, depending on the severity of the accident. Tragically, many accidents result in loss of life.

In Florida, boating accidents are most common in heavily trafficked and popular waterways where recreational boating thrives. Locations such as Miami, Key West, and Fort Lauderdale are prone to accidents due to their vibrant boating culture and high volumes of watercraft activity. This includes parasailing, jet skiing, paddleboarding, and snorkeling. With its mix of recreational and commercial vessels, Miami’s Biscayne Bay poses significant risks, especially during weekends and holidays. Key West often sees incidents involving charter boats and personal watercraft, especially due to inexperienced riders and strong water currents around the Keys. Fort Lauderdale features crowded marinas and waterways that demand careful navigation. Other high-risk areas include Tampa Bay, Naples, and the Intracoastal Waterway, where busy channels, sudden weather changes, and inexperienced operators can lead to accidents. 

Determining fault in a boating accident can be complex, often involving multiple parties and factors. The boat’s operator may be liable if they acted recklessly or negligently, speeding or failing to follow navigational rules. Other potentially responsible parties include the manufacturer of a defective boat component, a company that failed to maintain the vessel properly, or another boat operator involved in the collision. 

You may have a claim for compensation if you were injured in a boating accident caused by someone else’s negligence. This includes cases where the accident led to medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, or other financial losses. You may be entitled to recover damages if the accident occurred on a personal watercraft, a chartered boat, or a cruise ship. With different applicable statute of limitations to maritime accidents, consulting with an experienced boating accident lawyer is paramount to determining the strength of your claim and the compensation you could receive before your claim is barred.

The compensation you may receive depends on the specifics of your case. Victims often recover damages for medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering. In cases involving severe injuries, compensation may also cover long-term care, future lost earnings, and other related expenses. The amount awarded will depend on the severity of your injuries, the impact on your quality of life, and the degree of negligence involved. An experienced attorney can help you calculate the full value of your claim to ensure you seek fair compensation.

At Scolaro Law, we understand the unique challenges of boating accident cases and are committed to providing personalized, compassionate legal representation. We are located in South Florida, the boating capital of the world, and have years of experience handling maritime accident claims. We use our legal edge to our client’s advantage while working tirelessly to hold negligent parties accountable and help our clients recover the compensation they deserve.