Miami Scuba Diving Accident Lawyers

Scuba Diving Accident Lawyers in Miami, Florida

Skilled legal help when you’re injured in a Florida scuba diving accident

Scuba diving accidents are typically boating accidents involving divers. This is a specialized area of the law. Maritime law can apply. Maritime law can be better for the claimant/plaintiff. We have had numerous such cases, and we have won. For this reason, call The Specialists. Call Hickey Law Firm. We have represented numerous people injured in recreational boating cases. And we win.

Hickey Law Firm is a nationally-recognized firm for their work in maritime injury law, including boat and other watercraft accidents. Attorney John H. (Jack) Hickey is double board certified by The Florida Bar in Civil Trial and Admiralty and Maritime Law, distinctions held by few attorneys in Florida. He is also board certified in Civil Trial by the National Board of Trial Advocacy (NBTA). If you were harmed in any type of accident out on the water, get in touch with our personal injury attorneys today.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are scuba diving accidents and how do they happen?

Scuba diving accidents can result from a variety of factors, including equipment failure, operator negligence, inadequate training, and unforeseen environmental conditions. Common causes of Miami scuba diving accidents include:

  • Defective or poorly maintained diving gear can lead to drowning or decompression sickness.
  • Inadequate supervision, failure to monitor dive conditions, or an improper emergency response can contribute to accidents.
  • Divers who are not properly trained or briefed on safety protocols are at higher risk.
  • Strong currents, poor visibility, or dangerous marine life can pose significant risks.

These accidents can lead to severe injuries, including brain damage, spinal cord injuries, and even death.

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What types of injuries are caused by Miami scuba diving accidents?

Scuba diving accidents can cause a wide range of injuries, some mild and others life-threatening. Because scuba diving involves pressurized air, underwater movement, and deep depths, any mistake, equipment failure, or medical issue can quickly become dangerous. Here are the most common types of injuries from Miami scuba diving accidents.

  • Decompression sickness (also called “the bends”) happens when a diver ascends too quickly, causing nitrogen bubbles to form in the body. Symptoms include joint pain, dizziness, fatigue, chest pain, and in severe cases, paralysis or death.
  • Barotrauma is caused by pressure changes that can damage body tissues, especially in the lungs, sinuses, ears, and GI tract. A common example in scuba diving is ear barotrauma, where the pressure difference between the middle ear and the water causes severe ear pain or ruptured eardrums.
  • Holding your breath while ascending can cause air to expand in the lungs, leading to lung rupture or embolism (bubbles entering the bloodstream). This is extremely dangerous and potentially fatal.
  • At deeper depths, nitrogen can have a narcotic effect, causing confusion, poor judgment, and slow reaction times. This disorientation can lead to fatal mistakes underwater.
  • Equipment failure, panic, or unconsciousness can lead to drownings. Near-drowning may result in serious lung damage or brain injury due to lack of oxygen.
  • Long exposure to cold water without proper gear can cause the body to rapidly lose heat, resulting in hypothermia. Symptoms include confusion, loss of coordination, and unconsciousness.
  • Divers may come into contact with dangerous marine animals like jellyfish, sea urchins, lionfish, or even sharks. Injuries can range from stings and punctures to more serious wounds and allergic reactions.
  • A diver could hit their head or spine when entering or exiting the water, or if caught in strong currents or pushed against rocks or the boat. This can result in spinal cord and spine injuries or traumatic brain injuries.
  • Cuts, bruises, and lacerations can be caused by contact with sharp coral, rocks, wrecks, or malfunctioning equipment.

These injuries can result from a combination of poor planning, equipment malfunction, operator negligence, or diver inexperience. When any of these issues are caused by someone else's negligence, like a dive instructor or company, legal action may be possible.

How do scuba diving accidents fit into maritime law?

Scuba diving accidents often fall under maritime law, a specialized area governing activities on navigable waters. Maritime law differs from state laws and requires attorneys with specific expertise. Hickey Law Firm specializes in maritime law, ensuring that all of our clients receive knowledgeable representation.

Under maritime law, vessel operators and dive companies have a duty to exercise reasonable care in ensuring the safety of their passengers. Failure to meet this standard can result in liability for any injuries sustained.

Miami FL Scuba Diving Accident Lawyers

Who is liable for my Miami scuba diving accident?

Identifying who is at fault is an important step in pursuing a legal claim. Potentially liable parties for your accident can include:

  • The dive operator, if they were negligent, such as failing to provide proper equipment or adequate supervision.
  • Equipment manufacturers, if defective equipment contributed to the accident.
  • Boat operators, if the vessel was not operated safely or lacked necessary safety equipment.
  • Other divers, if another diver's actions directly caused the injury.

Our experienced attorneys can investigate the circumstances of your accident to determine liability accurately.

What is the value of my Miami scuba diving accident claim?

If you’re the victim of a scuba diving accident that wasn’t your fault, you may be entitled to a variety of financial compensation:

  • Medical expenses, which cover hospital bills, rehabilitation, and ongoing treatment.
  • Lost wages, if your injuries prevent you from working.
  • Pain and suffering, for your physical pain and emotional distress.
  • Loss of consortium, which is compensation for the impact on relationships with family members.
  • Punitive damages, in cases of gross negligence or intentional misconduct.

Here in Florida, punitive damages are generally capped at three times the amount of compensatory damages awarded or $500,000, whichever is greater.

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Why choose Hickey Law Firm for my Miami scuba diving accident case?

At Hickey Law Firm, based in Miami, we’re renowned for our expertise in maritime law. Led by John H. (Jack) Hickey, a double board-certified attorney in Admiralty & Maritime Law and Civil Trial Law, we offer the following:

  • A deep understanding of maritime law nuances.
  • Each case is handled with care and dedication.
  • A proven track record with successful outcomes in complex maritime cases.

We invite you to learn more about us.

Do you have a Miami scuba diving accident lawyer near me?

Hickey Law Firm is located at 12150 SW 128th Ct, Suite 225, in Miami, right off the Ronald Reagan Turnpike, close to the Miami Executive Airport. We serve the seriously injured in Miami, throughout Florida, and nationwide. If you are too injured to travel, we can come to you, or schedule a phone or video conference instead.

Contact our experienced Miami scuba diving accident lawyers today

Scuba diving accidents can have life-altering consequences. It’s vital to understand your legal rights and why you need the right representation. At Hickey Law Firm, our experience in maritime law positions us as a valuable ally in working through the complexities of a scuba diving accident case. If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in a Florida scuba diving accident, reach out to us as soon as possible. Call us or fill out our contact form today to speak to one of our experienced maritime and admiralty lawyers.