Florida Admiralty Law Lawyer
With such scenic coastlines and gorgeous weather all year round, it is no wonder Florida has such a flourishing boating and water sports culture. Although the ocean, coral reef, and waterways are enjoyed by thousands of people each year without incident, the waterways are an unpredictable force of nature. Accidents do happen and when they occur, serious injuries and even fatalities are the result.
Injuries that happen at sea are far more complex than those that happen on land. These incidents are often governed by admiralty law, which is extremely complex and vastly different from state law. If you or a loved one has been hurt, you need sound legal advice. Our Florida admiralty law lawyer can provide it and help you obtain financial compensation for your injuries.
What is Admiralty Law?
Although maritime law may seem similar to the boating laws of the state, the two are vastly different. Admiralty law deals with the intersection of federal law in the United States and international law regarding torts, accidents, offenses, and other legal issues that have occurred in or near international or navigable waters. This intersection of the law is extremely complex, and few people are familiar with these statutes. A Florida admiralty law lawyer can explain the law to injured individuals so they can recover the financial compensation they need.
Important Statutes in Admiralty Law
If you have been injured while in or near international waters, there are many different legal statutes that may apply to your case. These are as follows:
- Death on the High Seas Act: This law allows family members of anyone who has suffered a wrongful death at sea to file a lawsuit against the liable party within three years. While the law includes fatalities that occur on boats, it also covers fatalities due to aircraft crashes into the sea. In either case, the accident must occur at least three nautical miles from national shores.
- The Jones Act: The Jones Act applies to workers who are injured at sea and it allows them to file a lawsuit against their employer within three years of the date of the accident. Maritime employees can also sue their employer for negligence under The Jones Act.
- The Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act: This law allows shipbuilders, longshore workers, harbor construction workers, and other employees to file a lawsuit after sustaining a workplace injury in or near international waters. Family members can also collect survivor benefits if a worker suffers a wrongful death on the job.
The above are just a few laws that apply to accidents that occur in or near international waters. A Florida admiralty law lawyer can advise on the state, federal, and international law that applies to your case.
- Clearwater Admiralty Law
- Fort Myers Admiralty Law
- Pensacola Admiralty Law
- Sarasota Admiralty Law
- St. Petersburg Admiralty Law
Call Our Admiralty Law Lawyer in Florida for Help
Admiralty law is one of the most complex legal areas. At The Law Offices of Frank D. Butler, P.A., our Florida admiralty law lawyer can explain the law to you and guide you through the claims process so you can obtain the full and fair compensation you deserve. Call us now at 888-262-8529 or contact us online to schedule a consultation and to learn more about how we can help.
