Author Archives: Jay Butchko

Slip and Fall Injuries at Florida Marinas: Establishing Liability and Securing Compensation
Florida marinas offer picturesque gateways to boating adventures, leisurely strolls, and vibrant waterside activities. However, these inviting settings are not without risks. Slip and fall incidents at marinas are surprisingly common, often resulting in severe injuries that can significantly impact one’s quality of life. Understanding how liability is established and the available avenues for… Read More »

WHAT IS A LIMITATION OF LIABILITY ACTION IN A FLORIDA BOAT CRASH INJURY CASE?
A Limitation of Liability action is a lawsuit filed by an owner of a vessel in federal court in which that owner tries to limit damages of any and all claimants to the worth of the owner’s vessel after the casualty occurred. There are several aspects to this. First, the formal name of a… Read More »

WWW.888BoatLaw.com is open on Weekends and Holidays
Yes, www.888BoatLaw.com is open on weekends and holidays. It is important to know that you must get started on your claim right away. The insurance company for the at-fault party will not be waiting until Monday morning to be collecting information about your case in an effort to avoid payment. Also, it is of… Read More »

WHAT TO DO AFTER BEING INJURED ON A CRUISE SHIP
First, if you are still on the cruise ship you need to take photographs of the location, the thing, the hazard, the person, etc., which caused you injury. Do not presume the cruise line will help you document why they caused injury to you. In fact, all cruise lines operate on the premise that… Read More »

Hidden Dangers: How to Handle and Prevent Collisions with Submerged Objects
Striking a submerged object (SSO) is one of the most common yet often overlooked hazards faced by boaters. Whether you’re navigating inland waterways, busy ports, coastal areas, or even offshore, the risks posed by unseen debris beneath the water surface are real and significant. From logs and floating nets to sunken cars and crab… Read More »

WHO IS THE BEST BOATING ACCIDENT ATTORNEY IN FLORIDA?
While there is no such rating or award for best boating accident attorney in Florida, if you go by experience you would have to consider Frank Butler at www.888BoatLaw.com. Frank Butler is an 8th generation native of Florida. He grew up on the water as a kid who was the son of a long-time… Read More »

FLORIDA BOATER SAFETY IS SECONDARY TO MONEY
As a 25-year maritime attorney representing injured boating accident victims it is not difficult to see Florida’s priorities when it comes to safety for Florida’s boaters, JetSki riders, swimmers, etc. The proof is in the laws passed by the Florida legislature not just this year but in the past as well. Florida decided long… Read More »

Hidden Hazards: Why Collisions with Submerged Objects Are Often Fatal
Florida’s beautiful waterways offer endless opportunities for recreational boating, but beneath the serene surface lies a hidden danger that can quickly turn a day on the water into tragedy—submerged hazards. Collisions with underwater objects like logs, rocks, sandbars, or sunken vessels often result in severe injuries and, sadly, fatalities. Florida boat crash lawyer Frank… Read More »

Nighttime Navigation Risks: Why Fatal Boating Accidents Rise After Dark
Boating at night can offer serenity, breathtaking scenery, and unique recreational opportunities, but it also significantly raises the risk of serious, even fatal, accidents. Low visibility, impaired perception, and navigation challenges contribute to the increased frequency and severity of boating accidents occurring after dark. Florida boat crash lawyer Frank D. Butler discusses the unique… Read More »

CLEARWATER FERRY CRASH. THIS IS WHAT HAPPENS NEXT
On April 27, 2025 at 8:40 p.m. a 38-foot Statement vessel driven by Jeffrey Knight ran into the back of the Clearwater Ferry with 45 people on board the ferry. Tragically, one man, Jose Luis Castro, age 41was killed in the crash. Several other passengers on board the ferry were injured. This is what… Read More »