Do I Need a Lawyer for My Florida Boat Accident Injury Case? Pros and Cons

Boating in Florida is an enjoyable activity for many people, thanks to the state’s beautiful coastlines and warm climate. However, accidents on the water can happen unexpectedly, turning a fun day out into a challenging situation. When someone is injured in a boat accident, they may find themselves dealing with a range of issues such as medical bills, lost wages, and the stress of navigating the legal system. In these situations, the question often arises: Do I need a lawyer for my Florida boat accident injury case? Understanding the pros and cons of hiring legal help can guide you in making an informed decision. At, Serrano Law , we are here to guide you through the legal process and help you navigate the complexities of your case.

Michael Serrano

Founding Attorney

Candace “Cea” Hartley

Associate Attorney

Understanding Boat Accidents in Florida

Florida is one of the most popular states for boating, and with so many boats on the water, accidents are more common than many might think. These accidents can happen for various reasons, such as bad weather, boat operator inexperience, intoxication, or even faulty boat equipment. Whether you’re a passenger, a boat operator, or another person affected by the accident, the aftermath can be overwhelming.

In Florida, boat accidents that involve injuries or significant property damage must be reported to the authorities. This means that if you have been injured, there may already be a legal record of your case. This, however, is just the beginning of what can be a complicated process. Knowing whether to hire a lawyer in the wake of a boating accident is a personal choice, and there are pros and cons to consider when making this decision.

Pros of Hiring a Lawyer for a Boat Accident Case

One of the main advantages of hiring a lawyer for your boat accident injury case is the knowledge and guidance they provide. Navigating the legal system can be confusing and stressful for those unfamiliar with it. A lawyer will be able to explain the laws that apply to your situation and ensure that you are taking the right steps to protect your rights.

Mike Serrano’s law office was everything I needed after a very traumatic accident. He was always super up front and honest with me. I never got the feeling he was trying to sell me on something or to do something that I wasn’t comfortable with. He listened to my concerns and when it tough moments came that I needed to stand my ground. He backed me and made me feel 100% secure. He got me exactly what I needed in a settlement and I would never consider using anyone else. His office staff is also phenomenal.”

- Mary

Mike Serrano was a great attorney for my case!! He was very flexible with phone calls/ Zoom meetings. His staff are always friendly, whether it be on the phone or emails. They keep you updated during your entire case! They don’t leave you silent for months. if you call, they always call back with updates! Highly recommend!"

- Kylie Collier Border

I’ve never had to deal with a lawyer before but Mike has set the bar HIGH. He was always available to communicate my concerns and explain each step of the way. I know no other lawyer would have been able to achieve the same results because he jumped on an opportunity that was a little out of the ordinary and it paid off. He really fought for my case and over delivered. I really hope I never have another accident but if I do I’m running to Mike for help."

- Sandy Carter

In many boat accident cases, insurance companies get involved. Insurance adjusters may try to offer you a quick settlement that might not cover all of your expenses. A lawyer can help you negotiate with these companies to get a fair settlement that takes into account not just your current medical bills, but also any future expenses related to the injury. Lawyers have experience working with insurance companies, so they can help ensure that you are not taken advantage of during the settlement process.

In addition to dealing with insurance companies, a lawyer can help you gather evidence for your case. In boat accident cases, it is important to have evidence that shows who was at fault for the accident. A lawyer can work with investigators, medical specialists, and other professionals to build a strong case that supports your claim. This can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case, especially if there are disputes about who was responsible for the accident.

Another benefit of hiring a lawyer is the representation they provide if your case goes to court. While many boat accident cases are settled out of court, some do end up in front of a judge. If this happens, having a lawyer on your side can give you peace of mind, knowing that someone with legal training is there to represent your interests.

Cons of Hiring a Lawyer for a Boat Accident Case

While there are many reasons to hire a lawyer after a boat accident, there are also some downsides to consider. One of the most significant concerns for many people is the cost. Lawyers typically charge fees for their services, and these fees can add up. Some lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, which means they only get paid if you win your case. However, even in these cases, the lawyer will take a percentage of your settlement, which can reduce the amount of money you receive.

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Another potential drawback is the time it may take to resolve your case with a lawyer involved. Legal cases can be slow-moving, especially if they are complex or involve large amounts of evidence. If you are looking for a quick resolution, you might find that working with a lawyer stretches out the process longer than you had anticipated.

Some people also feel that they can handle their boat accident case without legal help. In cases where the accident was minor or there is no dispute about who was at fault, you might feel comfortable negotiating with insurance companies on your own. This can save you money on legal fees, but it also means that you will need to handle the paperwork and negotiations yourself, which can be stressful and time-consuming.

Do You Need a Lawyer for Your Boat Accident Case?

The decision of whether to hire a lawyer depends on the specifics of your case. If your injuries are serious, or if there is any dispute about who was at fault, hiring a lawyer may be in your best interest. A lawyer can help you navigate the complex legal system, negotiate with insurance companies, and gather evidence to support your claim.

On the other hand, if the accident was minor and there is no disagreement about who caused the accident, you might feel comfortable handling the case on your own. In these situations, you can save money by not hiring a lawyer, but you will need to be prepared to manage the legal process on your own.

Case Results

Car Accident

This client was injured in an auto accident with a driver who improperly merged into her lane. Her vehicle was totaled. She sustained an aggravation of her pre-existing disc herniations in her neck and new disc herniations in her lower back. We obtained the full limits of both the at-fault driver’s bodily injury coverage and our client’s underinsured motorist coverage, which were significant. The settlement was achieved without a law suit and within four months after the client finished treating.

Rear End Collision

This particular client was injured in an accident in late 2015 when she was rear-ended. She sustained an aggravation of pre-existing disc herniations in her neck and a new disc herniation which ultimately required a surgical fusion. By the time of trial, her medical bills exceeded $180,000.00. The Defendants’ offer pre-suit was $20,000.00. We were able to obtain a jury verdict of $441,000.00, plus attorneys’ fees.

Car Accident

A client was injured in a rear-end collision where he sustained an aggravation of a pre-existing disc bulge that developed into a herniation in his lower back. We obtained a jury verdict which was over 6 times what had been offered prior to trial.

Car Accident

In this case, our client injured her shoulder after being struck by a vehicle while she was performing volunteer services. The driver was traveling at such a high rate of speed entering a parking lot that he clipped another vehicle, hit a parking barrier and was launched into a tree. After the client attempted to negotiate with the insurance company prior to hiring us, we were able to obtain an amount that was over double the prior offer.

Intentional Torts

Our client was injured from an assault by a patron of a party while working security. His shoulder required multiple surgeries. He hired our office to pursue a claim to recoup his medical bills, which exceeded $130,000.00. After his assailant offered him $10,000.00 to resolve his case, we took the case to a jury to decide. The jury awarded our client all of his medical bills and tripled his award for pain and suffering.

Car Accident

This client came to us about a car wreck that occurred in 2014 where she sustained injuries. She approached our firm just one week before the statute of limitations was set to expire after being turned away by several other law firms. We filed a lawsuit and were able to obtain the limits of the at-fault driver’s bodily injury coverage and an additional settlement from the client’s insurance carrier.

Truck Crash

This couple was injured in an automobile accident after they were rear-ended in a seven-car pileup caused by a semi-trailer. Of the 15 people who made claims on the same insurance policy, our clients each received the second and third highest offers, which covered all of their past and future medical bills and their attorney’s fees.

Truck Crash

In this case, our client was injured from a rear-end collision with an eighteen-wheeler. Her original lawyer procured a settlement offer of $7,000.00 to settle her case. Because the offer did not approach the amount of bills she incurred from accident related treatment, she came to our firm for a consultation. She decided to hire us. We promptly filed suit and obtained a settlement for her.

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It is also important to consider how comfortable you are dealing with the legal system. If the thought of negotiating with insurance companies or gathering evidence feels overwhelming, hiring a lawyer can take some of that stress off your shoulders. A lawyer can handle the legal aspects of your case, allowing you to focus on recovering from your injuries.

What to Expect from a Lawyer in a Boat Accident Case

If you decide to hire a lawyer for your boat accident case, there are several things you can expect from the process. First, the lawyer will likely meet with you to discuss the details of your case. They will want to know what happened during the accident, the extent of your injuries, and any other important details. This initial meeting is an opportunity for you to ask questions and get a sense of how the lawyer plans to handle your case.

After this, the lawyer will begin investigating your case. This might involve gathering evidence, such as witness statements, photos of the accident scene, and medical records. The lawyer may also work with specialists to help build your case, such as accident reconstruction specialists or medical professionals who can provide testimony about your injuries.

Once the investigation is complete, the lawyer will work to negotiate a settlement with the other party or their insurance company. If a fair settlement cannot be reached, the lawyer may recommend taking the case to court. In court, the lawyer will represent you and present your case to the judge, working to secure the compensation you deserve.

Pros of Handling the Case Yourself

For those who prefer to handle the case themselves, there are some benefits. You have full control over the case and how it is managed. This can be empowering, especially if the case is straightforward and involves minimal disputes. Additionally, not hiring a lawyer means that you will not have to pay legal fees, which can save you a significant amount of money.

Handling the case on your own also means that you can move at your own pace. You can negotiate with insurance companies and work through the legal process without waiting for a lawyer’s schedule. If you are comfortable with legal paperwork and negotiations, this might be a good option for you.

Ultimately, deciding whether to hire a lawyer for your Florida boat accident injury case depends on your individual circumstances. Consider the complexity of your case, the severity of your injuries, and how comfortable you feel navigating the legal system on your own. While hiring a lawyer has many benefits, it is not always necessary, especially in minor cases with no disputes.

If you are unsure whether you need a lawyer, it can be helpful to speak with one for an initial consultation. Many lawyers offer free consultations, which can give you an idea of what to expect without any financial commitment. By weighing the pros and cons, you can make an informed decision that is best for your case and your recovery.

If you have been involved in a boat accident in Florida and are considering legal representation, Serrano Law is here to help. Our team is dedicated to providing the support and guidance you need during this challenging time. Reach out to us today to discuss your case and learn more about your options.