According to the American Bar Association, as of the most recent poll in 2021, there are 1,327,910 licensed attorneys in the United States. In Miami-Dade County alone, there are over 9,000 lawyers.
Whether you are looking for a Miami boating accident lawyer or any other type of lawyer, you will have numerous options. Many reputed Miami law firms have board-certified lawyers on staff who can handle your case.
If you or someone else is engaged in this type of accident, it is essential to seek the help of a qualified lawyer as soon as you can to protect your rights.
Below are some signs that you need to hire a lawyer:
1. You are not sure of your legal rights
As per the American Bar Association poll, approximately 60 percent of people do not understand the law. And while you may think that you have a clear understanding of your legal rights, it is always wise to have a professional assess your case.
2. The other party has an attorney
In 2020, Florida experienced 836 boating accidents, 113 more than in 2019, a 16 percent increase. Miami ranked number four in the state for the most boat accidents, with 46.
Having an experienced Miami boating accident lawyer on your side will level the playing field.
3. The other party is not willing to negotiate
Did you know that most personal injury cases are settled out of court? This is because both parties realize that a trial could result in financial ruin, especially if the case goes to a jury.
4. You have suffered severe injuries
As per the U.S. Coast Guard, almost half of all accident victims require hospitalization. And those who are hospitalized stay an average of four days.
Hiring a professional lawyer will ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries.
5. Someone else’s negligence caused the accident
In 2020, Miami-Dade County alone had 95 reportable boat accidents. Five of these incidents were deadly, while 68 were severe enough to cause physical harm. These incidents resulted in a total of $3,063,372.00 in property damage.
The vast majority of boating accidents are caused by negligence. In order to get fair compensation for your injuries, you will need to prove that the other party was at fault.
6. You are dealing with insurance companies
After an accident, you will likely have to deal with insurance companies. And while they may seem friendly, their goal is to pay you as little money as possible. An experienced lawyer will be able to deal with the insurance companies on your behalf.
7. You are not sure how to file a claim
Filing an injury claim can be complicated. If you are unsure how to file a claim or have already filed a claim and it has been denied, you should contact a lawyer.
What is the Cost of Hiring a Lawyer?
The cost of hiring a boat accident lawyer will vary depending on the law firm, the experience, and the seriousness of your case.
The average fee in Miami starts at $150 per hour. However, many law firms offer free consultations.
Now that you know the signs, you need to hire a lawyer; choosing the right one for your case is the next step.
