Owning a boat in Florida can allow you to enjoy the stunning scenery of the Gulf of Mexico, the Atlantic Ocean, and the Sunshine State’s many beautiful waterways. However, the intensity and unpredictability of the weather can result in devastating damage to vessels of all kinds. While having an insurance policy should be a source of consolation, dealing with insurance adjusters is often more of a cause of frustration, leading to unfair delays, reductions, or denials of your claim.
If your boat has sustained weather damage, the insurance claim legal team at Tomlinson Law Group has the experience and skills to fight for the compensation you deserve. Our firm has established a successful track record of helping clients win their cases, and we are ready to get to work for you. Contact us today for a free consultation to learn more about how we can help.
Why You Need a Boat Damage Claim Lawyer in Coral Springs & Broward County, FL
Dealing with boat damage can quickly become overwhelming, especially when you are facing resistance from your insurance company. A boat damage claim lawyer can provide valuable assistance in several ways:
- Thorough Understanding of Florida Insurance Policies – We can interpret complex policy language and help you understand your rights and coverage.
- Accurate Damage Assessment – Our team works with marine experts to properly evaluate the extent of your boat’s damage.
- Strong Negotiation Skills – We will advocate on your behalf to secure fair compensation from the insurance company.
- Protection Against Unfair Practices – If your insurer acts in bad faith, we can hold them accountable and pursue additional compensation.
- Stress Reduction – Let us handle the legal heavy lifting while you focus on getting back on the water.
How Different Types of Boats Sustain Damage
Various types of boats can sustain damage in unique ways:
- Sailboats – High winds can damage sails, masts, and rigging. These vessels are also vulnerable to capsizing in severe weather.
- Motorboats – Common issues include engine problems, propeller damage, and hull breaches. Storms can cause swamping or sinking.
- Pontoon Boats – Their flat design makes them susceptible to wind damage and tipping in rough waters.
- Jet Skis – These personal watercrafts can suffer engine damage from water ingestion or collision with submerged objects.
- Yachts – The size and complexity of yachts mean they can sustain expensive damage to electronics, living quarters, and onboard systems.
Types of Boat Damage Claims We Handle
At Tomlinson Law Group, we have experience with a wide range of boat damage claims, including:
- Storm Damage – Hurricanes, tropical storms, or severe thunderstorms can cause damage to hulls, engines, and equipment.
- Fire Damage – Electrical fires, fuel system malfunctions, or lightning strikes can cause extensive harm.
- Collision Damage – Accidents with other boats, docks, or submerged objects can result in the need for significant repairs.
- Theft and Vandalism – We can help recover losses from stolen equipment or malicious damage to your vessel.
- Manufacturing Defects – If your boat’s damage stems from poor design or construction, we can pursue claims against the manufacturer.
- Environmental Damage – Oil spills, chemical contamination, or other ecological disasters can harm your boat’s exterior and systems.
Our team understands each type of claim’s unique challenges and will tailor our approach to your specific situation.
How the Claims Process Works in Florida
When you file a boat damage claim in Florida, you will typically follow these steps:
- Report the damage to your insurance company as soon as possible
- Document the damage thoroughly with photos and videos
- Your insurer will assign an adjuster to assess the damage
- You may need to obtain repair estimates from approved marine contractors
- The insurance company will review the information and make a settlement offer
- You can accept the offer or negotiate for a fair settlement
Florida law requires insurance companies to acknowledge your claim within seven calendar days and make a decision within 60 days. However, insurers do not always adhere to these timelines or offer fair compensation. That’s where we come in. Our team at Tomlinson Law Group will protect your rights throughout this process and fight for the full compensation you deserve.
Reasons Your Claim Might Be Denied
Insurance companies may attempt to deny your boat damage claim for various reasons, including:
- Lack of Maintenance – They may argue that you failed to properly maintain your boat, leading to the damage.
- Policy Exclusions – Certain types of damage might not be covered under your specific policy.
- Late Reporting – Failing to report the damage promptly can give insurers grounds for denial.
- Misrepresentation – If they believe you provided inaccurate information when purchasing the policy, they might deny your claim.
- Operator Error – The insurer might claim that your actions caused the damage.
- Insufficient Documentation – Inadequate evidence of the damage can lead to claim denials.
If you face a denial, don’t lose hope. Our experienced attorneys can review the reason for denial and develop strategies to challenge it effectively.
Contact Tomlinson Law Group Today
While the boat damage claims process can be challenging, you do not have to let insurance companies shortchange you. At Tomlinson Law Group, we have the knowledge, experience, and dedication to help you secure the compensation you need to repair or replace your vessel.
We offer free initial consultations to discuss your case and explain how we can assist you. Our team will:
- Review your insurance policy in detail
- Gather and organize all necessary evidence
- Negotiate aggressively with insurance adjusters
- Represent you in court if a fair settlement cannot be reached
We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay unless we win your case. This allows you to pursue justice without worrying about upfront legal fees.
Experiencing boat damage in a Florida storm can be stressful and upsetting. Let Tomlinson Law Group provide the support you need to file boat damage claims. Call us today or contact us online for your free consultation and take the first step toward fair compensation for your boat damage.
