Florida Boating Accident Lawyers
Protecting Drowning, Boating, and Jet-Ski Accident Victims Nationwide
Water Accident Lawyers is a proud member of the National Safe Boating Council, which supports and promotes safety initiatives in boating.
Every year, thousands of Americans are injured or killed in boating accidents — many of which are entirely preventable. Whether on a lake, river, or open sea, boating accidents often involve operator negligence, alcohol use, or defective equipment.
Water Accident Lawyers represents victims and families affected by boating, jet-ski, and drowning incidents nationwide, helping them recover the compensation they deserve.
Call (561) 489-2909 or contact us online for a free initial consultation with a Florida boating accident attorney at Water Accident Lawyers. We offer virtual appointments for your convenience. Hablamos español.
National Boating Accident Statistics
According to the U.S. Coast Guard’s Recreational Boating Statistics, there are between 4,000 and 5,000 boating accidents annually, resulting in roughly 600–700 deaths and 2,500+ injuries.
Despite advancements in safety, the national fatality rate remains about 5 deaths per 100,000 registered vessels.
Over the past decade, total accidents have gradually declined, but fatal and serious injuries remain common — especially on privately operated or rented vessels without experienced captains.
Florida: The Boating Capital and the Most Dangerous Waters
With over one million registered vessels, Florida leads the nation in both boating activity and boating accidents.
According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC):
- More than 700 reportable boating accidents occurred in 2023.
- 65 people lost their lives, the majority due to drowning.
- The highest number of accidents occurred in Miami-Dade, Monroe, and Palm Beach Counties.
- Open motorboats and personal watercraft (jet skis) are involved in the majority of incidents.
Most Common Types of Boating Accidents
1. Collisions
- Collisions with another vessel are the most frequent type of accident nationwide and in Florida (~25–30% of all accidents).
- Collisions with a fixed object (dock, marker, seawall, jetty, etc.) are the leading cause of fatal crashes in Florida.
- Causes often include inattention, operator inexperience, and excessive speed.
2. Falls Overboard
- This is the leading cause of drowning deaths on boats.
- Overboard falls typically occur from small open motorboats or fishing boats where passengers are standing or moving around.
- Contributing factors include alcohol use, lack of life jackets, and rough water.
3. Grounding
- This is when a vessel runs aground on a sandbar or reef, which is common in coastal areas like the Florida Keys or Intracoastal Waterway.
- Grounding can lead to injuries, hull damage, and environmental liability (e.g., coral damage).
4. Flooding / Swamping
- Swamping often occurs due to overloading, improper weight distribution, or taking waves over the bow/stern.
- This is particularly common in smaller boats under 21 feet.
5. Capsizing
- This is typically linked to overloading, improper loading, or wake from other boats.
- Capsizing is a major source of drownings in both powered and paddlecraft vessels.
6. Struck by Propeller / Person in Water
- Being struck by a propeller is among the top causes for the most catastrophic injuries, including deep lacerations, amputations, or fatalities.
- This usually follows a fall overboard or the operator reversing near swimmers.
7. Personal Watercraft (Jet Ski) Collisions
- There is a high proportion of youth-involved and rental-operator crashes with jet skis.
- Common scenarios include reckless driving, circular “play riding,” and failure to yield.
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“I found Robert Baker to be very reliable, courteous, prompt, and knowledgeable. He is highly proficient at discerning the veracity in your case while showing genuine concern for what's in the best interest for his clients.”- Stefanie M.
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“He is very dedicated and caring and takes the time to explain things to you in laymen's terms so that you are fully aware of your situation and representation. In both cases I was very happy with the outcome which was settled in our favor.”- Michelle T.
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“Robert looks out for his clients’ best interest, no matter what. From our very first interactions, I could tell I was being valued and cared for. He is unabashedly unafraid to go the distance and to fight the fight. Robert is a badass!”- Suzanne C.
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“I had a jet ski accident where I almost died and hired him. He was always supportive and willing to explain me all the details about everything. I recommend him 100%.”- Ana R.
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“Robert is excellent at what he does. He always gets the best possible result for his clients, and basically holds their hands until the process is completed. Thank you!”- Alison F.
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“Mr. Baker went above and beyond when there was a time in my life when I Needed a lawyer. His ability to understand my situation and getting me to the right person was a life changing event.”- Billy K.
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“Easy, straight forward, professional and responsive service. I would definitely recommend Baker legal team to anyone seeking legal advice.”- Natalie G.
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“My Baker and his team recently represented me in accident case I was very pls with the outcome. thanks to u guys.”- Chamberlain W.
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“I recommend Robbie in the highest possible terms. Not only was the quality of his work outstanding, but he was incredibly prompt, responsive, and a pleasure to work with and talk to. 5 stars!!!”- Arielle M.
When the Waters Get Rough, We Fight for You
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Landmark Cases
In 2001, Robert argued the case of Lamz v. Geico before the Florida Supreme Court. He won this appeal which changed the landscape of Florida uninsured/underinsured motor vehicle laws.
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Trial Tested
Robert has gone to trial and won against multi-national companies and remains UNDEFEATED in personal watercraft litigation. He has been the lead trial attorney in over 50 cases.
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Former Prosecutor
Robert began his career as a prosecutor, working as an Assistant District Attorney in Kings County, New York. With over 35 years of experience, you’ll have one of Florida’s leading experts in personal injury on your side.
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Board Certified
You’ll work directly with Robert Baker, a Board Certified Civil Trial Attorney who has recovered over $400 million. Less than 1% of Florida Attorneys are Board Certified Civil Trial Lawyers.