Claris Law Legal Blogging Community

Name:

E-mail:

Phone Number:

Zip Code:

Your Question:

Editor: Rod Sullivan
Profession: Maritime Attorney

Category: Boating Accidents

Recently a sailboat operating off of Port Canaveral was struck by a tug and barge. The sailboat was sunk, but its owner, who was the sole person on board, was left without assistance for over five hours. He alleges that the tug and barge knew it hit him, and simply drove away.

In Florida, failing to render assistance, if it results in death, is a crime known as vessel homicide. Operating a boat in a reckless manner is a second degree felony. However, running away without reporting the incident and rendering assistance turns it into a first degree felony.