Most boat trailers must be registered in Florida, just like other vehicles. When you’re hurt in a boat trailer accident, you have several options for gaining compensation from the at-fault party. Below, a Florida boating accidents attorney from Lytal, Reiter, Smith, Ivey & Fronrath explains important considerations and laws that could affect your case.
Do boat trailers have to be registered like cars?
Yes, under Florida law, boat trailers are subject to certain registration and titling requirements. First, they must have safety chains and tie-down straps to secure the boat in place. They must also have working brake lights, tail lights, and turn signals, and trailers weighing over 3,000 lbs must have brakes on all wheels.
Boat trailers weighing under 2,000 pounds only need registration, but it must also be titled if the trailer exceeds that weight. Boat trailers must be equipped with safety chains and tie-down straps.
What are common types of boat trailer accidents?
You could be injured or suffer property damage in situations such as:
- An inexperienced boater driver hits your trailer while attempting to put their boat into the water next to you at a ramp.
- A driver without appropriate safety equipment on their trailer causes a car accident.
- A driver’s boat comes loose from the trailer because it wasn’t secured, harming you or a loved one in the water, on the ground, or on the highway.
Your boating accident attorney will investigate and determine all liable parties and avenues for compensation. They will file insurance claims and personal injury lawsuits on your behalf while you concentrate on recovering from any injuries. In most situations, you can seek financial relief for medical bills, lost income, property damage, and your pain and suffering.
What happens if I’m to blame for a boat trailer accident?
Failing to have the appropriate documentation and functioning safety equipment for your boat trailer could work against you in an accident. This is because Florida’s modified comparative negligence statutes prevent you from seeking damages if you’re found to be more than 50% at fault.
Can I file an insurance claim after a boat trailer accident?
While Florida doesn’t require boat insurance, accidents involving a boat or boat trailer may be covered under the boat owner’s homeowners or an auto insurance policy, depending on the details of the situation. However, that coverage may exclude larger boats and all trailers. Your boating accidents lawyer can review the policy and negotiate with the insurance company for a fair settlement.
To file a claim, you and your attorney will gather evidence showing what happened, which could include:
- Witness statements
- Photos and videos of the damage
- Accident reports from local police or the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
- Repair estimates for property damage
- Medical bills for associated injuries
Should I file a lawsuit after a boat trailer accident?
That depends on whether your insurance negotiations are successful. In most instances, your boating accidents lawyer can persuade the insurance provider to agree to a fair settlement that pays for your injuries and property losses. However, when the insurer won’t agree to your demands, you do not have to accept their settlement offer. You can take the other party to court to seek full compensation.
Filing a lawsuit may give you a better chance of getting what you deserve. Your attorney can examine the details of your claim and advise you so you can determine if you want to take this step or continue negotiations.
How do I learn more about boat trailer accidents in Florida?
To arrange a free consultation with a qualified Florida boating accidents lawyer at Lytal, Reiter, Smith, Ivey & Fronrath, use our online form or call us at (561) 655-1990. We are dedicated to obtaining the compensation you deserve, so contact us today to get started.
