Miami Personal Injury Lawyer Blog
Miami’s warm, clear waters and vibrant marine life make it a top destination for resort SCUBA trips, attracting divers from around the world. PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors) reports that there are eight dive sites in and around Miami, including five reef dives, three at shipwrecks, and two in the Atlantic Ocean. Like many avid divers, you’re aware of the risks that are involved with your favorite activity.
However, a risk you do not expect is getting left behind by a resort SCUBA tour operator. It is critical to discuss your rights with a Miami resort torts lawyer if you suffered harm because of the dangers associated with being out in the open water. They include:
Risk of Drowning
Being abandoned during a SCUBA trip in Miami poses a significant risk of drowning. Divers rely on oxygen tanks with limited air supply, making timely retrieval critical. If stranded, exhaustion, strong currents, or waves can increase the danger. This preventable risk highlights the importance of proper headcounts by resort operators. Victims of such negligence may have legal recourse under Florida law.
Hypothermia in Open Waters Near Miami
The warm waters of Miami can still become a threat to divers left behind during resort SCUBA excursions. Prolonged exposure to open water, especially during the cooler evening hours, can lead to hypothermia. Tour operators are responsible for ensuring all divers are safely accounted for. Victims facing injuries from exposure can seek legal remedies to address their suffering.
Encounters with Sharks and Other Marine Life
Miami’s vibrant underwater ecosystem attracts SCUBA divers, but being left behind exposes divers to harmful marine life encounters. Sharks, jellyfish, or other predators pose dangers to stranded individuals. Resort operators failing to monitor divers’ safety can be held accountable for injuries sustained from marine wildlife. This risk emphasizes the need for diligent safety practices.
Mental Trauma and Emotional Distress from Abandonment
Beyond physical injuries, divers left behind on SCUBA trips often suffer emotional anguish. The fear of isolation and survival can leave lasting psychological effects, impacting victims’ quality of life. Miami-based tour operators must prioritize safety protocols to prevent such incidents. Injured parties may have the right to pursue compensation for emotional damages.
Legal Remedies for Injured SCUBA Divers
Victims injured during a SCUBA trip in Miami have the right to pursue legal action if negligence by the resort or tour operator caused their harm. This includes failure to account for divers, inadequate safety measures, or lack of proper equipment. Under Florida law, injured parties may seek compensation for:
· Medical expenses
· Lost income
· Pain and suffering
· Emotional distress
Contact a Miami Resort Accidents Attorney to Discuss Your Rights
If you or a loved one were injured during a resort SCUBA trip in Miami or anywhere in Florida, the experienced personal injury attorneys at Gerson & Schwartz, PA, can help. With offices in Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and West Palm Beach, our team is dedicated to holding negligent parties accountable and securing the compensation you deserve. Schedule a free consultation today by visiting us online or calling (305) 371-6000.
