Maritime & Boating Attorneys
Injured on the “Venice of America”? Maritime Law is Different.
Whether you were a passenger on a Water Taxi, a guest on a rental boat, or crew on a superyacht, you need a lawyer who knows the Rules of the Road on the water.
Fort Lauderdale is the “Yachting Capital of the World,” but our waterways are overcrowded. On any given Sunday, the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW) and the New River are packed with massive commercial yachts, novice tourists on rental boats, jet skis, and Water Taxis.
Unlike car accidents, there are no skid marks on the water. Proving who was at fault requires understanding GPS data, “Right of Way” rules (COLREGS), and the specific speed zones near bridges like the 17th Street Causeway. At Fenstersheib Law Group, we investigate these cases quickly before the vessel is repaired and the evidence disappears.
The Situation: You were hit by a drunk boater (BUI), a speeding Jet Ski, or injured on a rental boat.
The Law: Florida Negligence Law.
The Situation: You work on a yacht (stewardess, deckhand, engineer) and were hurt due to unseaworthy conditions or captain negligence.
The Law: The Jones Act (Federal).
The Situation: You slipped on a wet gangway getting off the Water Taxi or were injured on a “Jungle Queen” type tour.
The Law: Common Carrier Liability.
If you work on a boat, you generally cannot file for standard Florida Workers’ Compensation. Instead, you are protected by a powerful federal law called the Jones Act.
The Jones Act allows injured seamen to sue their employer for negligence. This often results in significantly higher compensation than workers’ comp because it covers pain and suffering. Additionally, you are entitled to “Maintenance and Cure”—daily living expenses and medical coverage while you recover.
Warning for Renters: Boat rental companies in Fort Lauderdale will make you sign a waiver. Do not assume you have no rights. If the boat was defective (e.g., broken steering) or they failed to give you proper safety gear, that waiver may be worthless in court.
From Jones Act claims to rental boat negligence, we have the experience you need. Free Case Review.
