What was supposed to be a fun boating excursion for tourists visiting Miami became a tragic accident on February 11, 2024. Nearly 30 people suffered some degree of injury after two boats collided in Biscayne Bay. Now, four of the crash victims are suing for damages for the serious injuries they sustained.
Boating Collision Sends 13 to Hospital
The collision occurred at 3:15 pm on Sunday, February 11, between a tourist vessel called the Thriller Speedboat and a private recreational vessel. The crash occurred in an area of Biscayne Bay known as Fisherman’s Channel near Dodge Island and Port Miami.
Although the investigation into the cause of the boating accident is still under investigation, videos recorded by victims involved show a private vessel crashing into the Thriller Speedboat. The latter is a tour boat that takes passengers around the Bay at speeds of up to 40 miles per hour.
Nearly 30 people involved in the incident suffered injuries, but 13 had injuries severe enough to require a trip to a local hospital. One victim was airlifted by a helicopter.
Over 30 rescue personnel and several vessels, including Miami-Dade Fire Rescue, City of Miami Fire, the Florida Wildlife Commission, and the U.S. Coast Guard, responded to the incident. The response was initially smaller, but responders called in for backup due to the number of people involved and injured. Those involved in the accident who did not have serious injuries were taken back to the dock where the tour began.
Injured Victims File Lawsuit
Four of the victims injured in the boating crash have partnered with a local law firm to seek damages. According to the firm, the plaintiffs suffered fractures, traumatic brain injuries, and other injuries that will affect them for the rest of their lives.
More investigation is needed to determine liability in the incident. Videos of the accident clearly show that the private vessel collided with the tourist speedboat. However, the speedboat operator may also be liable if they turned in front of the other boat, for instance. The speedboat may also have been operating at a high and unsafe rate of speed.
The victims’ representatives believe that both boat operators are liable for the accident. The U.S. Coast Guard is currently investigating the incident, which could lead to more evidence to make a case for the victims. Although they signed liability waivers, the law firm believes the victims are owed damages due to negligent actions that led to the accident.
Boating collisions are common and often result in loss of property, injuries, and in some cases, fatalities. In this case, there were fortunately no deaths, but several people suffered lasting injuries that will forever affect them. If you suffered injuries in a boating accident, you have a right to reach out to a maritime lawyer and take legal action to recover damages. Negligent boating actions should be held accountable to make the industry safer.