What are Florida’s Rules on Life Jackets?

Boating is an extremely popular activity in Florida. It is easy to understand why considering The Sunshine State has one of the longest coastlines in the country, second only to Alaska. While boating is a great deal of fun, it can also be very dangerous. Accidents that take place on the water result in some of the most serious types of injuries, including drowning. To reduce these risks, it is always important to wear a life jacket while on the water. However, what does the law say about the use of personal floatation devices? Our Florida boat crash attorney explains what these are below.

What are the Life Jacket Laws in Florida? 

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission strongly urges anyone who is on a boat to wear a life jacket. According to the agency, there were 836 boat accidents in 2020. Of all people who drowned in these crashes, 88 percent of them were not wearing a life jacket. Still, this is not required by law on a boat.

State law only requires children under the age of six to wear a life jacket at all times when they are on a boat less than 26 feet in length. These personal flotation devices must also be approved by the United States Coast Guard. Inflatable life jackets are not suitable.

All operators and passengers on personal watercraft such as jet skis are also required to wear a life jacket at all times. If a person is being towed behind a watercraft, they are also required to wear a life jacket. If any of these laws are violated, people can face a fine between $50 and $80. However, failing to wear a life jacket can also hurt any personal injury claim you may file in the future.

 Our Boat Crash Attorney in Florida Can Build a Strong Case for You 

If you have been hurt in a boat collision or Jetski collision, you need legal advice. At 888-BOAT-LAW (The Law Offices of Frank D. Butler, P.A.), our Florida boat crash attorney can build a strong case for you so you obtain the full recovery you deserve. Call us today or contact us online to schedule a free consultation.

Sources:

myfwc.com/boating/regulations/

myfwc.com/news/all-news/boating-stats-521/#:~:text=Florida had 836 boating accidents,more than the previous year.