Wilton Manors Boating Accident Claims the Life of Local Teen

By Orlando Personal Injury Attorney on August 28, 2015

A boating accident in Wilton Manors earlier this month claimed the life of a Florida teen and left five others with serious injuries. According to authorities the group of six teens were aboard a 13 foot Boston Whaler boat the night of August 13th, when they struck a low lying bridge on the Middle River near Wilton Manors. The accident occurred around midnight, in an area with extremely low visibility. Family and friends say the teens were out observing a meteor shower. Residents in the area saw the teens out on the water earlier in the day, and said they seemed to be exploring the area. Once the daylight faded, the unfamiliarity of the area proved fatal.

One witness says he saw the boat speed past his residence, and he knew they would be going too fast to see anything in the dark. Just seconds later he heard the loud impact of the boat on a nearby low bridge which has several drain pipes running along the underside. Those familiar with the area say it was an accident waiting to happen. There is no signage in this area that may alert boaters to the low clearance and lighting is very poor.

Boating is a recreational activity that many Floridians enjoy year round, especially in the southern part of the state. What many do not realize is that driving and riding in a boat can be just as dangerous as riding in a car – perhaps even more so because there are no safety restraint devices in a boat. On the water, there are no brakes, are there would be in a vehicle. If a boat is headed towards an obstacle, the only options for the driver are turning, reversing, or preparing for impact. Safe driving behaviors including staying alert to surroundings, moving at safe speeds, and abstaining from alcohol are especially important for these reasons. A moment’s misjudgment can have a lasting impact on you or your loved ones.

If you or someone you love has been the victim of a boating accident and was seriously injured, please contact the Law Offices of James O. Cunningham, P.A. today at 877-FL-INJURY (877-354-6587).

James O. Cunningham

Since 1977, personal injury lawyer James Cunningham has provided effective legal advocacy to people who are injured through the negligent actions of another person or entity throughout the Central Florida area. He fights to obtain recoveries for his clients’ physical and emotional pain and suffering and pursues his clients’ personal injury cases with a commitment to excellence and impeccable preparation.