Boat Accident Insurance: What’s Required?

The Panhandle of Florida has some of the most beautiful beaches and navigable waterways in the South, and if you live here or stay for a vacation, the temptation to get out on the water will inevitably hit you. Before you take the leap, however, remember that Florida doesn’t require boat owners to carry insurance. What does this mean for you?

That means the person driving the boat may not have be in a position to pay (literally) for any injuries they cause to the passengers on their boat. While many boat owners may have a homeowner’s insurance policy, it may exclude coverage if they are on a boat. Even if you have health insurance to pay for your medical bills, there are deductibles and co-pays that you weren’t expecting and can’t afford.

Ask questions.

So, before you get on a boat this summer, ask whether or not the person who owns the boat has insurance, just in case. Even if the boat isn’t insured, there are options to help a person get medical bills paid if a boat accident occurs. However, many of those options will require the advise of an experienced boat accident attorney to help you answer.

Even if a person causes an accident, the law gives them a number of protections, which can make it difficult to force them to take responsibility for their actions. A boat accident attorney can help you find out whether or not you have a case if you or a loved one is injured in a boating accident.

Worst Case Scenario

Unfortunately, when insurance isn’t required, if the owner or driver of a boat doesn’t own anything (and boats are often leased), and there isn’t any insurance, there may be nothing that can be done. That is why, this summer, take the time to ask questions before hopping onto someone else’s boat. Chances are, nothing will go wrong, but nobody expects they’re going to get injured by someone else.

If you or a loved one have been injured in a boat accident, and you are concerned about whether or not the person responsible has insurance to help pay for your injuries, contact the lawyers at Michles & Booth for a free consultation. We can help you get the answers you need. Call 850-438-4848 to speak with a lawyer.