From fishing charters to jet ski rentals and sightseeing tours, boating is a favorite pastime for residents and tourists in Naples and Fort Myers, Florida, and Roswell, Georgia. Unfortunately, not all rental companies and tour operators prioritize safety. When they cut corners on training, maintenance, or supervision, passengers and other boaters may pay the price. At Kelleher Law, we help victims of boating accidents pursue justice when negligence by rental companies or tour operators causes harm.
Common Causes of Rental and Tour Boat Accidents
Boating accidents involving rentals or tours often occur because of:
- Inadequate training or safety instructions for renters
- Failure to provide life jackets or safety gear
- Poor boat maintenance leading to mechanical failure
- Overcrowding or overloading vessels beyond safe capacity
- Inexperienced or negligent tour operators
- Alcohol use allowed or ignored by staff
Who May Be Liable in These Accidents?
Liability in boating rental and tour accidents can be complex. Responsible parties may include:
- Rental companies that failed to properly maintain equipment or train renters
- Tour operators who ignored safety protocols or carried too many passengers
- Boat manufacturers if a defective part contributed to the crash
- Negligent renters or operators who caused harm to others on the water
Injuries Common in Rental Boat Accidents
Victims of these accidents may face:
- Traumatic brain injuries from collisions or falls
- Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
- Severe cuts, fractures, or amputations caused by propellers
- Drowning or near-drowning injuries
- Emotional trauma, especially in cases involving children
Compensation Available to Victims
If negligence is proven, victims may recover damages for:
- Medical bills and rehabilitation costs
- Lost wages and reduced earning potential
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Wrongful death damages for surviving families
Why Victims Need a Boating Accident Lawyer
Tourism-based boating companies and their insurers often try to deny liability or blame victims. At Kelleher Law, we:
- Investigate company safety policies, training programs, and maintenance logs
- Review Coast Guard and law enforcement reports
- Work with marine safety experts to prove negligence
- Negotiate aggressively or pursue trial to secure full compensation
Serving Victims in Florida and Georgia
Whether your accident happened on a rental boat in Naples or Fort Myers or during a tour on a Georgia waterway near Roswell, Kelleher Law is here to fight for your rights.
