Todd Miner, Experienced Accident Attorney in Orlando, Shares a Guide to Florida Boating Laws in Time for Summer

    ORLANDO, FL, March 28, 2014 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Orlando auto and boating accident attorney, Todd Miner, would like to take a moment to talk about some of Florida's current boating laws and regulations. Boating season is just around the corner, and soon thousands of local residents and tourists will be taking to the water. And just like auto accidents, boating accidents cause thousands of injuries and deaths each year. And, also like auto accidents, most boating accidents are easily preventable.

Todd notes that the state's laws apply to all types of motorized and non-motorized watercraft, including speedboats, sailboats, pontoons and personal watercraft, with penalties for those individuals who fail to abide by them. While the cool ocean water offers much relief from the scorching summer sun, safety always comes before fun.

Be Aware of Boating Laws Before Your Next Trip

In most cases, a person born on or after January 1, 1988, may not operate a vessel powered by a motor of 10 horsepower or greater unless such person has in his or her possession aboard the vessel, photographic identification and a boater safety identification card. There are exceptions to this; such as when accompanied in the vessel by a person 18-years of age or older whom is exempt from this requirement or who themself holds an identification card. For a more detailed explanation of this requirement and exceptions, you should refer to Florida Statutes Chapter 327 - Vessel Safety, or take a Coast Guard approved boating course.

Orlando auto and boating accident lawyer Todd Miner also says that Florida law requires that the owner and operator of every vessel on the waters of this state shall carry, store, maintain, and use safety equipment in accordance with current United States Coast Guard safety equipment requirements. A few safety devices which every boat should be equipped with include: approved functioning navigation lighting, flotation devices, a working fire extinguisher and distress signals. This equipment is necessary for preventing boating accidents that seriously injure and kill hundreds every year.

According Todd Miner, "Every operator is responsible for staying up to date on their state's boating laws. Ignorance is not an excuse and is what unfortunately causes many people to die from boat-related accidents every summer." An approved Coast Guard boating course will address safety issues and equipment in more detail and help you become a responsible boater.

Todd Miner is a leading Orlando personal injury attorney. Learn more about his services by visiting http://www.toddminerlaw.com/.

About Todd Miner Law:

As a former attorney for the largest auto insurance company in the country, Todd Miner gained the experience and skills necessary to help his clients obtain the results they need and deserve. His areas of practice include: all areas of personal injury including car accidents, truck accidents, motorcycle accidents, boating accidents, medical malpractice, workers' compensation and more.

To get more information, go to http://www.toddminerlaw.com/.

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