Florida residents and vacationers spend a large amount of time out on the water, whether fishing, boating, jet skiing, or on a cruise ship. Although accidents on the water do sometimes occur, the risk of injury or drowning can be significantly reduced with the proper use of a personal flotation device (PFD). Different PFDs are designed to meet different needs and offer varying amounts of protection in different water rescue scenarios.
Sadly, even when PFDs are available, accidents can still occur. If you or someone you know has been injured in a boating accident, the Fort Lauderdale boating accident lawyers of Salpeter Gitkin, LLP, may be able to help. To speak with an attorney today, contact our offices at 954-467-8622.
Types of PFDs
Different types of personal floatation devices, often simply referred to as life jackets, are used in different water safety scenarios. They include:
- Type I PFDs: Off-shore — Best for use in offshore waters in areas where immediate rescue may not be possible, including remote areas, open ocean, or rough waters. Used on commercial cruise ships and ocean liners.
- Type II PFDs: Near-shore — Best for general activities on calm waters where immediate rescue is possible.
- Type III PFDs: Flotation aids — Best for designated activities such as fishing, canoeing, kayaking, and others as marked on the jacket. Used in calm, inland water where quick rescue is possible.
As you plan your water-related activities, make sure that you have the proper type of PFDs available for each person in your party to reduce the risk of injuries and accidents.
Contact Us
If you or a loved one has been the victim of a boating or drowning accident, you may be able to pursue legal action against the person or party responsible for your injuries and losses. Contact the Fort Lauderdale boating accident attorneys of Salpeter Gitkin, LLP, at 954-467-8622 to discuss your legal options.
