Florida Power Boat-Tugboat Accident Kills Five, Injures Seven
A maritime accident involving a power boat with 14 people on board and a docked tugboat on the Intercoastal Waterway in St. John's County, Florida killed five people and left seven with serious injuries. The accident occurred 25 miles southeast of Jacksonville on Sunday evening.
The power boat was leaving the marina when it slammed into the tugboat. Rescue efforts were initially hampered due to ongoing construction work at the dock. Rescuers had to lay plywood sheets out to get to the victims, who were all on the power boat. The tugboat, which was registered to a St. Augustine company, F & A enterprises, was empty at the time. Three of the people injured in the maritime accident were said to be in critical condition.
Investigators are looking into a number of factors that may have caused the accident, including the speed of the power boat, lighting conditions, and whether people on the power boat were drinking at the time of the crash. The driver of the boat is said to be one of those who survived the boat accident and officials have confirmed that they will conduct toxicology tests on the driver.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission announced a criminal investigation into the crash. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has also announced that it will be conducting an investigation into the boat accident. Normally, the NTSB does not involve itself in boat accidents, but due to the serious injuries and multiple fatalities here, the board has decided this maritime accident merits an investigation.
Maritime Accident Claims
Maritime workers injured in an accident with another vessel, whether it is a pleasure craft or a Jones Act vessel engaged in commercial activities, may be entitled to compensation.
If you believe you have been injured in a maritime accident, a maritime attorney can help answer any questions you may have regarding compensation. Contact an experienced maritime lawyer at Arnold & Itkin LLP for a free evaluation of your claim.
