Another South Florida Boating Explosion Leaves Multiple People Injured

On the afternoon of May 9, a reported boat explosion in Miami-Dade County severely injured several on board. The boat, a charter vessel in Biscayne Bay close to the Haulover Sandbar, sent multiple people to local hospitals.

Boating accidents are not a new phenomenon in the Sunshine State. This recent incident serves as yet another reminder of the dangers on South Florida waterways, especially during peak boating season. While investigators continue to learn more about what caused the explosion, victims will likely be left with medical expenses and questions about liability.

What happened in the Miami boat explosion?

According to ABC News, first responders answered calls about an explosion and rushed to the popular Haulover Sandbar around 12:48 p.m., a heavily trafficked boating destination along Miami’s waterways between Biscayne Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. When they arrived, they found multiple victims, including 11 who were transported to local hospitals.

Further reports indicate that Leo, a nearby boat captain, identified the incident as the “scariest moment” of his life. Another witness on the scene saw three people fly off the boat and a puff of smoke. Later, he saw victims who were “very badly burned” on stretchers.

The cause of the explosion is still under investigation, according to Melissa Brevik, a spokeswoman for the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.

Common causes of boat accidents

From charter boats and rental boats to jet skis and private vessels sharing waterways, there is heavy traffic year-round, leading to congestion in Miami and Biscayne Bay. Crowded holiday weekends, such as this past Mother’s Day weekend, can increase the risks.

While boating explosions in Florida are not typical, they do occur, but they can often be prevented when proper care is taken. Explosions on Florida waterways usually stem from the following:

• Fuel vapor ignition: Gas is heavier than air, which means that gas vapors collect in the lowest and least ventilated parts of a boat. When boat operators forget to run the bilge blower before starting the engine, an explosion can occur.
• Fuel leaks: Leaks can occur for a number of reasons:

○ Cracked fuel lines can allow gas to leak into the bilge.

○ Faulty parts, like non-marine-grade fuel pumps or defective parts, can cause a leak.

○ Overfilled tanks can leak because there’s no room for expansion as the gas heats up.

• Electrical failures: Marine environments can be corrosive, which can damage wiring. Faulty wiring can spark and lead to fires and explosions.
• Unattended cooking equipment: Some boats use propane tanks to fuel grills or stoves. If equipment is left unattended or propane tanks are placed too close to flammable materials, they can ignite.
• Poor maintenance: Failing to conduct regular checks on boats, including inspection of fuel lines before a trip, can result in an explosion.

Serious injuries victims may suffer after a boat explosion

Boat explosions can leave victims with catastrophic injuries, some of which can lead to extensive medical treatment. Common injuries associated with boating explosions include:

• Severe burns
• Smoke inhalation
• Back and spinal cord injuries
• Broken and fractured bones
• Brain injuries, including traumatic brain injuries
• Lacerations from flying debris
• Psychological trauma and PTSD
• Wrongful death in fatal boating explosions

Who may be held liable after a boating explosion?

After a serious boating explosion in Miami or elsewhere on South Florida waterways, several parties can potentially share liability. Determining fault often depends on what caused the explosion and whether someone’s negligence contributed. For example, the following can share liability in a Florida boating accident case:

• The boat operator
• A boat owner
• A rental or charter company
• A boat or parts manufacturer
• Maintenance providers or mechanics

Boating explosions can leave victims with devastating injuries, including severe burns, as in the most recent case on Biscayne Bay on May 9. Identifying all responsible parties is essential to pursue compensation.

What compensation may be available to victims?

If you’ve suffered injuries in a boating accident, you may be able to claim compensation for the following:

• Medical expenses
• Rehabilitation and long-term care expenses
• Lost wages and reduced earnings
• Scarring and disfigurement
• Pain and suffering
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Mental anguish
• Physical impairment

How a Miami maritime attorney can help

Depending on where the accident occurred, a boating accident case may involve federal maritime law. The attorneys at Hickey Law Firm specialize in maritime injury law. Founder, Jack Hickey, is a triple board-certified attorney, including Board Certification by The Florida Bar in Admiralty & Maritime Law and Civil Trial Law, and national board certification as a trial lawyer by the National Board of Trial Advocacy (NBTA), making him and his firm uniquely qualified to handle serious boating injury cases.

If you or a loved one has been affected by a boating accident, reach out to Hickey Law Firm for help today. We’re here to help.

Contact a Miami boat accident attorney today

Boat explosions in Florida are typically preventable. No individual and no family should suffer loss from a day out on the water. If you’ve been in a boat accident, you need to contact a maritime law specialist.

The attorneys at Hickey Law Firm represent boat crash victims and their loved ones. We offer free case evaluations with attorneys dedicated to maritime law. We also work on a contingency basis, meaning you don’t pay attorney fees unless we recover compensation in your case. Contact us today. We’re ready to fight for you.