Claudia Balmaseda Orellanes Killed in Miami Boat Accident
The 33-year-old Coral Gables resident was struck by an unmanned vessel after being ejected into the water
Claudia Balmaseda Orellanes, 33, of Coral Gables, was killed in a boat accident in Biscayne Bay near Miami, Florida, on March 28, according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
The 27-foot vessel was driving near a popular sandbar when the operator lost control, ejecting both passengers into the water. The unmanned boat then began running in circles and struck both individuals, investigators said. Miami-Dade Fire Rescue crews pulled the 54-year-old operator from the water and transported him to a local hospital for treatment.
Orellanes suffered fatal injuries and her body was later recovered from the water. The boat's operator was critically injured in the crash.
The FWC is investigating the circumstances that led to the loss of control.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is investigating the boat accident in Biscayne Bay that killed Orellanes. Reports indicate the 27-foot vessel's operator lost control, ejecting both passengers before the unmanned boat circled and struck them.
National Legal Analyst Candice Bond, Managing Partner at Bond Legal. "Most people don't know that boats don't have brakes, so stopping depends entirely on the current and wind. This makes a sudden emergency on the water much harder to handle than in a car."
The investigation will likely examine factors such as the boat's speed, the operator's experience, and any environmental conditions that may have contributed to the loss of control.
What is a "propeller strike" in a boat accident?
A propeller strike occurs when a person in the water is hit by the rotating propeller of a boat. In this incident, after the passengers were ejected, the boat continued to move, leading to Orellanes being struck.
How do investigators determine fault in a boat accident?
Investigators examine several factors, including witness statements, debris analysis, boat maintenance records, and the operator's actions. They also consider environmental conditions like weather, water currents, and visibility.
What is the role of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission in this investigation?
The FWC is the primary agency responsible for investigating boating accidents in Florida. Their role includes gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and determining the cause of the accident. They also enforce boating safety regulations.
Florida wrongful death statute
Under Fla. Stat. § 768.16-768.26, surviving family members may file a wrongful death action. Florida applies modified comparative fault (51% bar). The statute of limitations is 2 years from the date of death.
Recoverable damages may include loss of support and services, loss of companionship, mental pain and suffering of survivors, and medical/funeral expenses.