Melbourne, like other coastal cities in Florida, is a haven for boaters, jet skiers, divers, and others who enjoy the fun of the ocean. Unfortunately, every year, people get hurt and killed in boating accidents by negligent people.

Boat collisions and other accidents while behind the wheel of a water vessel can easily lead to death or maiming, but you have rights. Our Melbourne boating accident lawyers at Andrew Pickett Law will help you understand those rights and what to do to get compensation for your injuries.

How Does Fault Work in Boating Accidents?

Under federal law, both boat pilots have responsibility for avoiding a boating accident. However, that doesn’t mean both are at fault for the accident. Figuring out who is responsible for a boating accident is part of the job of your boating accident lawyer.

It’s more difficult than a car accident because there are no license requirements to operate a boat or personal watercraft. The at-fault party in a boating accident could be:

• Someone else operating your boat
• A distracting passenger on either boat
• The other boat pilot
• The owner of the other boat
• A boat rental company
• The manufacturer of a defective boat part
• A boat mechanic

Finding out who is at fault is always the first item of business in a lawsuit. Until we know who to sue, we don’t know which insurance companies to contact or whose assets to investigate. It could even be several parties.

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What Damages Could I Win From a Boating Accident Case?

There are no unique damages in boating accidents, so it’s the same damages you could be eligible for in other personal injury cases. These include:

• Costs for repairing your boat and any damaged gear
• All medical expenses
• Lost income and future lost income
• Disability costs
• Non-economic damages like pain and suffering

You may also qualify for punitive damages. This is a punishment given by the court for severe cases of negligence. Your boating accident lawyer in Melbourne can try to argue for punitive damages if your case goes before a judge.

Common Causes of Boating Accidents

The number one cause of boating accidents is drinking while boating. Driving on water while sober is confusing enough when you have multiple wakes and sudden waves that could bounce the boat. Alcohol just adds to the mix of confusion and leads to bad decisions, like:

• Speeding, especially in “no wake” zones
• Not looking for other boats, objects, and people in the water
• Driving in poor weather

Another cause is machinery failure. This is a strong possibility for rental boats. People who rent out boats must maintain their vessels. If something goes wrong with the engine and causes an accident, the owner may be liable. Your Melbourne boating accident attorney can investigate the circumstances of your wreck to determine liability.

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Beatrice Maxime

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"I am so very grateful to have had this firm represent me. I was in a car accident a few years ago, but the car insurance company of the person who totaled my car would not replace my car, nor pay for my medical bills. We ended up going to court and because of Mr. Pickett, we won the case. Thank you so much for all you did for us!!!!"

What Do I Do After a Boating Accident?

The steps you take after a boating accident are similar to what you need to do after a car accident. First, stop your vessel and see if anyone is hurt. If there is an emergency, call 911 and follow their instructions. Make an effort to help anyone hurt if it doesn’t risk others.

Exchange your name, address, and boat information in writing with everyone involved in the accident. Then, if you didn’t contact 911, contact one of these three parties to report the accident. You must do this within as soon as possible, especially if there is an injury, death, or extensive property damage:

• The Division of Law Enforcement, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
• The Brevard County Sheriff
• The Melbourne police department

What If I Was Working on a Sea Vessel?

If you were hurt in a workplace accident while on a vessel, there is a different set of laws that cover compensation, including the Jones Act and the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act (LHWCA). Speak with our Melbourne boating accident lawyers if you fall into this situation. You will need specialized legal advice.

Get Help Today From a Boating Accident Lawyer in Melbourne

If you’ve been in a boating accident, you’re likely facing huge repair bills and medical bills. If the accident wasn’t your fault, you can get compensation from the responsible party. To get started, contact the Melbourne, FL, boating accident lawyers at Andrew Pickett Law by phone or by using our contact form. We’ll set up a free no-obligation consultation about your accident.

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Shaun Peiffer

I had an excellent experience with Andrew Pickett Law firm. From start to finish, the team was incredibly responsive and attentive to my needs. Jessica was outstanding in patiently answering all my questions, making sure I fully understood each step of the process. I also want to thank Vonda for taking the time at the beginning of my case to walk me through everything, providing clarity and peace of mind. In the end, I was more than happy with the successful settlement outcome. I highly recommend Andrew Pickett Law firm for anyone seeking top-notch legal representation.

Response from the owner: Thank you so much for the wonderful review, Shaun! It was an honor to represent you. We are grateful for the trust you placed in us. If we can ever be of assistance to you or your friends or family in the future, please let us know.

Belinda Darnell

I had the privilege of working with Attorney Jessica Hicks alongside Attorney Andrew Pickett during my personal injury case, and their exceptional representation made all the difference. From the very beginning, they were attentive, compassionate, and highly engaged with every detail of my case. Attorney Jessica Hicks, in particular, formed a great personal connection with me, truly understanding the pain and challenges I faced after my accident.Their communication was outstanding, keeping me informed at every step through phone calls, office visits, text messages, and their office app. Attorney Jessica Hicks’ dedication and persistence led to securing the full allowable settlement amount without the need to go to court, which was an immense relief.I cannot recommend Attorney Jessica Hicks and Attorney Andrew Pickett highly enough. Their knowledge, support, and commitment are of the highest caliber. Jessica, in particular, is a determined and relentless advocate, ensuring that I was fully supported and heard throughout the process. If you're looking for attorneys who will truly fight for you, Jessica Hicks and Andrew Pickett Law are the ones to choose.

Response from the owner: Thank you for the great and thoughtful review, Belinda! It was a pleasure to represent you, and we are happy that you are satisfied with our efforts.

Jen Gonzo

ANDREW PICKETT LAW represented me in my case and they were professional all the way through. I am so grateful for what they were able to do for me. Big kudos to my attorney Jessica Hicks. 👏

Response from the owner: Thank you, Jennifer! Great review. So happy that we were able to resolve your case favorably!

Ken Williams

Andrew Pickett and his staff worked extremely hard to resolve my case I am extremely happy that I went with them and will use them in the future most definitely they kept me well informed and The professionalism I experienced wasunmatched.

Response from the owner: Thank you, Ken! It was a pleasure to represent you and get to know you.

Valeta Cameron

Exceptional attorney! Highly recommended for any of your personal injury needs.

Response from the owner: Thank you, Valeta!

Rose Hudson

Andrew and his team were incredibly knowledgeable and showed empathy and compassion to me throughout the entire process. My questions were always answered, even after the case closed. I continue to follow Andrew Pickett on various social media outlets as he regularly creates relevant and informative content. I highly recommend Andrew Pickett.

Response from the owner: Thank you, Rose! We really appreciate your kind words and your friendship. Please let us know if we can ever be of assistance in the future.

Marquisha Mansfield

Very helpful great status wonderful work

Response from the owner: Thank you for trusting us to help you with your case, Marquisha.

jhayco

Great job and great service

Response from the owner: Thank you for your review.

Beatrice Maxime

I am so very grateful to have had this firm represent me. I was in a car accident a few years ago, but the car insurance company of the person who totaled my car would not replace my car, nor pay for my medical bills. So we hired a Law Firm who then brought in Andrew Pickett Law on the case. I am so happy Andrew agreed to come onboard. He worked really hard on my case. Even though things were moving slow because of Covid-19 pandemic, he never stop working on my behalf. He was very dedicated to the case. I'm grateful for his professionalism, his patience, and his devotion.We ended up going to court and because of Mr. Pickett, we won the case.Thank you so much for all you did for us!!!!

Response from the owner: Beatrice, thank you so much for your kind words! I really enjoyed getting to know you and your family. It was an honor to represent you and join you on this journey.

Marilyn Colpitts

Fantastic service and professionalism. The Pickett Law firm handle my case with care and understanding. I recommend this firm with your case that may be out of the ordinary. Extremely pleased with the outcome.

Response from the owner: Thank you, Marilyn!

Tamara Peterson

From mid 2023 to February 2024 I had the honor of having Andrew Pickett Law Firm join the team representing my car accident case from 2019 which resulted in PTSD, and injuries to my neck, back, and brain.His high energy, determination, and dedication to bring the best possible outcome for any case definitely exceeded all expectations I could have possibly had.Resulting in the highest possible outcome for my case.I would highly recommend him to anyone needing legal representation!Knowing the depth of passion he has for every case he represents speaks for itself. You’re in the hands of a positive and powerful force with Andrew Pickett as your lawyer.

Response from the owner: Thank you for the kind words, Tamara. We were honored to represent you in your case.

Sylvester Hill

Response from the owner: Thanks for the 5-star review, Sylvester!

Brett Lindenberg

The best of the best! Andrew Pickett is the best personal injury / car accident attorney in Melbourne and possibly even the state of Florida. Most lawyers gloss over smaller clients, but Andrew demonstrated serious commitment, respect, and honesty throughout the process. Very thankful for Andrew Pickett Law and his knowledge to help resolve our situation quickly.

Response from the owner: Brett, we really appreciate the time you took to write such a nice review! It really means a lot to our firm.

Mary alice Mcconnell

Response from the owner: Thank you for the 5 star review, Mary.

Davis Legal Center Inc

Attorney Pickett and his staff are excellent. I have personally worked with and seen his care and compassion for his clients. Not to mention his ability to obtain favorable results for his clients inside and outside the courtroom. I recommend Attorney Pickett and his team without reservation!

Response from the owner: Thank you, Dameka! This means a lot. We appreciate you.

Des

I'm so grateful for this firm! They handled my case quickly and with ease.

Response from the owner: Thank you for the 5 star review, Destinee.

Ryan McCarville

Andrew is a great attorney and works really hard for his clients. He is incredibly active in the community and has a great reputation among his peers.

Response from the owner: Thank you for the 5-star review, Ryan! I appreciate the encouragement.

Matt Horwarth

Response from the owner: Thank you for the 5-star review, Matt!

Ethan Babb

Andrew is a tried and true trial attorney. I highly recommend him and his team of highly capable attorneys, paralegals and legal assistants. They truly care about their clients and go above and beyond to achieving the absolute best results.

Response from the owner: Thank you so much, Ethan! I have enjoyed getting to know you over the years and watching your career take off.

Betty Bobay

After being part of a unique preparation process Andrew uses to prepare his clients for presenting their story to a jury, I attended one of his trials to watch the process unfold. I was in awee as I observed how he left no stone uncovered with the depositions, visual aids, videos from relevant physicians, (who shared in lay terms with the jury...how the crash had impacted the client medically and changed the entire trajectory of their life). Andrew is laser focused on helping a jury understand how a client's life has been altered and the losses they have incurred as a result. If you need a Personal Injury Attorney, you could not ask for someone more compassionate and laser focused on helping you than Andrew Pickett.

Response from the owner: Thank you for the kind words, Betty

John Gozowsky

Thank Tina Johnson for a good job

Response from the owner: John, thank you so much for the kind words. It has been an honor helping you.

Alexander Roye

Andrew and his team as as good as they come. Their extensive knowledge matched with genuine care about you as a client makes this firm by far the best I have delt with. 100% recommend to anyone looking for their services.

Response from the owner: Thank you for your kind words, Alexander.

Steff Smith

Pickett Law is an outstanding firm!! Mr. Pickett is a well experienced personal injury attorney with an amazing staff. Both Attorney Hicks and Attorney Whitehouse have been a great addition to his office. Sometimes, as a firm grows you notice their attention to their clients lessen - that is definitely not the case with Pickett Law.

Response from the owner: Thanks, Steffanie! We appreciate the kind words. I’ll share your feedback with the other attorneys in my office.

Marta Kiss

I have had the pleasure of working with Andrew Pickett and his stellar team on two trials. The preparation, dedication and precision he puts into each client and case translates into the courtroom. Andrew is an excellent trial lawyer, and I look forward to working with him again in the future.

Response from the owner: Thank you for the great review, Marta! We enjoyed working with you and look forward to working with you on more cases in the future.

ScraggssFit

Andrew and his team are some of the most genuine and selfless people I’ve met. If you’re looking for a legal team that will fight for you, then they’re your team!

Response from the owner: Thank you, Amy! We appreciate the kind words. It means a lot.

Nathan Special

If you are looking for an attorney in Melbourne to help with your car accident case, call Andrew Pickett Law. He’s a wonderful attorney, and very easy to talk to. He was very understanding and patient when we were going through such stressful times. He got us the results we were looking for.

Response from the owner: Thank you for the 5-star review, Nathan!

Robert Frost

They were very good and hrlpful

Response from the owner: Thank you, Robert. It was an honor to represent you.

victor shallow

The staff at Andrew Pickett Law is excellent. They have been great at communicating with me. The attorney on my case has made herself available to answer my questions anytime I need. I highly recommend this team of professionals.

Response from the owner: Thank you for the kind words, I am glad we are able to help you with your case.

Elena Johnson

Vonda at Andrew Pickett law has gone above and beyond! I'm very grateful I've had her in my corner during this really stressful process of dealing with insurance companies. I've never been in an accident before and had no idea what to expect or what the process was. Vonda has helped me each step of the way, explaining everything to me. Everyone I've interacted with at the law office has been patient, thorough and knowledgeable. Highly, highly recommend!

Response from the owner: Thank you for the kind words, Elena. We are honored to be able to represent you and help you during this difficult time.

Alan Carlow

Thank you for your help.

Response from the owner: Thank you, Alan! It has been our honor.

Tonya Moreno

Jenny is well versed right down to the fine details I felt confident and happy with my decision. I would recommend her any time.

Response from the owner: Thank you for the great review!

Susan DiFilippantonio

I do not write many reviews but am compelled to share how wonderful it is working with Jenny in the Melbourne office! She goes thar extra mile and is a super star with this firm! So very very happy with my dealings with her! I would give her 100 stars if I could!!!

Response from the owner: Thank you, Susan! What a great review!

Tammy Trentham

Tina Johnson has been amazing to work with during this time of need. Thank you Tina.Vonda Vasser was very informative and understanding during my process. Thank you also, Vonda.

Response from the owner: Thank you for the kind review, Tammy!

John Thomas

Andrew Pickett of Andrew Pickett Law is a lawyer of unparalleled character and integrity. I have known Andrew for more than a decade, both personally and professionally. Andrew always demonstrates a level of professionalism and dedication that exceeds expectations.As a highly trained trial lawyer, Andrew brings a wealth of experience to every case he handles. His commitment to providing personalized service is evident in his meticulous approach and unwavering attention to detail. Andrew takes the time to understand his clients' needs and concerns, ensuring they feel supported and informed throughout the legal process.What truly sets Andrew apart is his genuine care for his clients. It is his goal to treat each individual with the utmost respect and compassion, speaking honestly and realistically about their options. Andrew approaches every case with integrity, always striving to achieve the best possible outcome for his clients.I wholeheartedly recommend Andrew Pickett to anyone in need of legal representation.Thank you, Andrew, for your exceptional service and for truly caring for your clients like family. Your dedication to the legal profession and commitment to integrity make you a standout in your field.

Response from the owner: Thank you for the wonderful review, John!

Danette Lauricia

Response from the owner: Thank you for the 5-star review, Danette!

menny salomon

Attorney Andrew Pickett went above and beyond to assist me with my case. His advice was top-notch, and he executed everything just as he promised. His communication was flawless, and he was punctual every time. I highly recommend Attorney Pickett and will only be seeking his services in the future.

Response from the owner: Thank you, Menny!

Colleen DeGraff

If you're looking for personalized, hands-on representation - look no further. The attention to detail and drive to get you the results you deserve are just a few reasons why the firm is successful.

Response from the owner: Thank you Colleen!

jessica bohlke

Absolutely shocked on how quickly I heard from this law firm. I reached out via chat on their website, which was very convenient, and within 2 hours I received a phone call directly from Andrew. He was so kind and so thorough with his intake for my auto injury accident. Highly recommend!Update: beyond satisfied with Andrew picketts law firm. His team was amazing! They were very communicative and organized throughout the whole process. I really felt like they had my best interests at heart. Definitely still recommend!

Response from the owner: Jessica, thank you so much! We look forward to working with you.

Hope Cremona

I was very happy with the service I received at Andrew Pickett Law and with the outcome of my claim. I had all my questions answered in a timely manner. Mr. Pickett made himself available to speak with me about the status of my case throughout the process and I found his legal support staff very helpful and responsive. I would highly recommend him.

Response from the owner: Thank you for giving us the opportunity to represent you. I am pleased that you were satisfied with the outcome! Please let us know if you ever need any assistance on other matters in the future.

Ben Glover

Andrew Picket Law was extremely professional and responsive. He addressed my concerns and handled my matters with professionalism. I am very appreciative for him and his staff.

Response from the owner: Thank you for the kind words, Ben!

Devon Landman

Often, I get the privilege of working with Attorney Andrew Pickett, a distinguished personal injury attorney based in Florida, and I cannot speak highly enough of his exceptional legal skills and dedication to his clients.Navigating through the aftermath of a car accident can be overwhelming, but with Andrew, clients feel supported every step of the way. Additionally, he is exceptional at handling dog bite cases. His thorough understanding of personal injury law and diligent approach to building a strong case results in a successful outcomes for his client, time after time.Whether you're dealing with the aftermath of a car accident or a dog bite incident, I wholeheartedly recommend Andrew Pickett for expert legal representation and unwavering support.

Response from the owner: Thank you, Devon! I appreciate the kind words.

Daniel Hayes (Dcypherd)

Mr. Pickett and his team are OUTSTANDING! His attention to detail is amazing. He really understands his clients and puts his soul into building a case. He always kept me in the loop, valued my input, responded to any and all questions I had, and made me feel confident and comfortable throughout. His reputation preceded him and he lived up to, and beyond, my expectations. I cannot recommend him highly enough. Thank you Mr. Pickett for helping me through an incredibly tough time in my life!

Response from the owner: Danny, thank you for trusting me to represent you. It was an honor.

Chantel Hayes

I cannot thank Andrew Pickett & his team enough for the outstanding legal representation and support they provided throughout my husband’s injury lawsuit. From first meeting as a referral from another (great) attorney to the triumphant conclusion of the case, Mr. Pickett demonstrated an unparalleled level of expertise, professionalism, and dedication.His meticulous attention to detail and deep understanding of personal injury law were evident every step of the way, and his strategic approach to building and presenting the case was truly remarkable. Mr. Pickett kept us informed and involved throughout the entire process. He is so personable that it was easy to look to him as a friend and open up which is so important in this arena.Thanks to Andrew Pickett’s unwavering commitment and tireless advocacy, we achieved a successful outcome that exceeded our expectations. We really are incredibly grateful for the hard work, compassion, and the genuine care shown. I wholeheartedly recommend Andrew Pickett to anyone in need of legal representation for personal injury matters. His expertise and genuine dedication to clients makes him a standout in this field. Thank you, Mr. Pickett & team for making a positive difference in my husband’s future.

Response from the owner: Wow! What a great review. Thank you for the kind words, Chantel!

Amyra Emysa

Response from the owner: Thank you for the 5-star review!

Mackendy Augustin

Response from the owner: Thank you for the 5-star review!

Angel Urbina

I would recommend Mr. Pickett to everyone. They are a first class law firm!. Thank you Vonda and Tina for your outstanding work as well!

Response from the owner: Thank you for the kind words, Angel! It was an honor to represent you.

Rachael Shaffer

Vonda and Tina were amazing! They helped guide me entirely, making this process simple and easy! I would definitely highly recommend Andrew Pickett and his team! Thank you Vonda and Tina ❤️

Response from the owner: Thank you so much for the kind words, Rachel! It was an honor to represent you.

Thomas Curry

I enlisted the services of Pickett law firm to assist with a personal injury claim on behalf of a sibling. The service and response were exceptional provided by Vonda initially and later Mr. Pickett. In very short order, I had a several conversations and detailed email explaining all options available to me. Although my claim did not amount to a monetary award as of yet, I would not hesitate to recommend them to anyone who requires those services.

Response from the owner: Thank you for taking the time to write a wonderful review! Glad we could assist!

Chris Rose

Response from the owner: Thank you for the 5-star review, Chris!

S. Paul

Response from the owner: Thank you for the 5-star review!