Understanding Florida Boating Laws and Liability After an Accident

Boating in South Florida offers endless opportunities for fun — but accidents can happen in a moment. When they do, knowing the laws that apply can help you avoid costly mistakes and protect your rights.

Florida Boating Laws Every Operator Should Know

1. Mandatory Safety Equipment

Florida law requires life jackets for all passengers, a fire extinguisher, visual distress signals, and other safety gear depending on boat size.

2. Boating Under the Influence (BUI)

Operating a boat with a blood alcohol level of 0.08% or higher is illegal and carries serious penalties — just like driving under the influence.

3. Speed and Wake Rules

In slow-speed and manatee zones, exceeding the posted limit can result in fines and increased liability in an accident.

4. Accident Reporting

If an accident results in death, disappearance, injury requiring medical treatment, or property damage over $2,000, you must report it to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC).

Liability After a Boating Accident

Negligence

If the accident was caused by careless operation, distracted boating, or ignoring posted regulations, the operator may be held liable.

Equipment Failure

In some cases, the manufacturer of defective boating equipment could share liability.

Shared Fault

Florida follows a “comparative negligence” rule, meaning multiple parties can share responsibility for the accident.

How CEDA Can Help

After a boating accident, your first step should be getting the medical care you need. CEDA provides same-day treatment for accident-related injuries and can connect you with an attorney who understands Florida maritime law.