Government Cut Inlet Boat Accidents

Government Cut inlet in Miami is an important maritime artery, serving as the primary access point to the bustling Port of Miami. Carved through the barrier islands of Miami Beach, this man-made channel connects the deep waters of the Atlantic Ocean with the waters of Biscayne Bay. Its strategic location not only facilitates the smooth flow of maritime traffic, but also plays a pivotal role in the region’s economy, serving as a gateway for cruise ships, cargo vessels, and recreational boaters. Government Cut is flanked by iconic landmarks such as Fisher Island and South Beach.

Beyond its economic significance, Government Cut holds a rich history deeply intertwined with Miami’s growth and development. Constructed in the early 20th century to enhance access to the burgeoning port, the inlet has seen the evolution of Miami into a hub of trade, tourism, and culture. However, the very factors that make it efficient – strong currents, heavy traffic, and limited space – also elevate the risk of accidents. Here at Hickey Law Firm, we understand the complexities of maritime law and are here to protect the rights of those involved in Government Cut Inlet accidents.

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Site of many deadly accidents

Government Cut has unfortunately been the site of many catastrophic Miami boating accidents. These include:

• A 2019 accident that took the lives of three people and seriously injured another happened when a 32-foot center console boat slammed into the north jetty.
• Miami Marlins pitcher Jose Fernandez was killed along with two friends in 2016 when their 32-foot SeaVee boat crashed on the rocks in the inlet.
• In 2023 the Government Cut Inlet was closed for a period after a 30-foot boat collided with the Fisher Island Ferry just east of Dodge Island. One person died and another was seriously injured. Three Miami cruise ships were delayed entry to the port until the investigation concluded.

The narrow and congested nature of Government Cut can sometimes lead to navigational errors, especially during periods of low visibility or high traffic. Inexperienced captains or those unfamiliar with the area may find themselves at risk of running aground or colliding with other vessels or structures along the channel. Despite efforts to improve navigational aids and enforce stricter regulations, accidents continue to occur, underscoring the need for constant vigilance and adherence to safety protocols by all mariners navigating through the inlet.

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Back in 2019, the Miami Herald published a piece on the dangers of Government Cut, saying:

The water surrounding Miami Beach is full of obstacles: Jet skiers zip around speedboats and yachts, children lounge on inflatable rafts and passengers jump off tour boats blasting music as they cruise between the island and the mainland.

People and boats aren’t the only potential hazards. At the tip of South Beach, a thin strip of rocks juts roughly 1,000 feet into the ocean off Government Cut channel near PortMiami. At high tide during the day, the end of the north jetty slips below the waves, a dark shadow obscured by turquoise water. At night, the unlit rocks are even harder to see.

They further report:

After Marlins star José Fernández crashed his boat on the north jetty in 2016, City Manager Jimmy Morales sent a letter to the Coast Guard, which has authority over channel markings, asking for a safety review of the area around the jetties. The Miami-Dade County Commission also called for increased safety measures, and the county’s Marine Patrol Unit recommended that lighting be added to the jetty.

However, the Coast Guard determined that adding lights to the jetties wouldn’t make the area any safer and in fact could confuse boaters.

Staying safe in the Government Cut Inlet

This bustling maritime channel, while vital for commerce and recreation, poses significant risks to boaters due to its narrow confines, strong currents, and high traffic volume. Every year, Hickey Law Firm handles cases involving accidents in Government Cut, many of which could have been prevented with proper precautions and adherence to safety protocols.

Boaters must recognize the unique challenges posed by Government Cut and take proactive measures to ensure their safety and that of others. This includes familiarizing themselves with the channel’s layout, understanding navigational markers and aids, and staying informed about current weather and sea conditions. Additionally, maintaining a safe speed, especially in congested areas, and yielding to larger vessels such as cargo ships and cruise liners is essential for avoiding collisions and potential disasters.

Further, boaters should exercise caution when transiting through Government Cut, especially during periods of low visibility or adverse weather. These conditions can significantly affect visibility and make navigation more challenging, increasing the likelihood of accidents. By staying alert, maintaining situational awareness, and following any navigational warnings or advisories, boaters can reduce the risk of incidents and ensure a safe passage through this critical waterway.

In the unfortunate event of a boating accident in Government Cut, victims should seek legal representation from an experienced Miami maritime accident attorney. At Hickey Law Firm, we understand how to handle such cases and are committed to advocating for the rights of injured boaters and their families. We understand the complexities of maritime law and will work tirelessly to pursue justice and compensation for those harmed due to negligence or misconduct on the water. Remember, boater safety in inlets is important, and taking proactive steps to mitigate risks can prevent accidents and save lives.

If you were injured in a boat accident in Government Cut, our Miami lawyers can help.

Hickey Law Firm specializes in “life changing injuries”®. Call us first. Call us now. 800.215.7117

Hickey Law Firm is uniquely qualified in these types of cases. No other law firm in America has these qualifications. We are America’s #1 Maritime law firm. Hickey represented cruise lines for 17 years before he started representing injury victims. For the past three decades, he has fought exclusively for the injured. He brings with him all that he learned about the cruise business and about how cruise ships are run. Also, he is a specialist in admiralty and maritime law, the law which applies to all of these claims.

The Best Lawyers in America® recognizes John H. (Jack) Hickey in three areas: Admiralty and Maritime Law, Personal Injury Litigation – Plaintiffs, and Medical Malpractice – Plaintiffs. He is double Board Certified by The Florida Bar in Civil Trial and Admiralty and Maritime Law, and Board Certified in Civil Trial by the National Board of Trial Advocacy (NBTA).

To schedule a free consultation with one of our experienced attorneys, call Hickey Law Firm today or fill out our contact form. As always, you don’t have to pay anything upfront, because we only get paid AFTER we win your case. Our law firm is based in Miami but serves clients throughout Florida and the United States. We want to help.

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