Seven Hospitalized After Commercial Airboats Collide on Peace River in DeSoto County

Seven people were transported to area hospitals Tuesday after two commercial airboats collided on the Peace River in DeSoto County, according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). The incident prompted a multi-agency emergency response and remains under active investigation.

FWC officials said the collision occurred just north of the Lettuce Lake Boat Ramp while both airboats were operating along the Peace River.

• Airboat One:
  • One operator and six passengers onboard
  • Five occupants injured and taken to nearby hospitals
• Airboat Two:
  • One operator and two passengers onboard
  • Two occupants injured and transported for medical care

All seven injured individuals were hospitalized. Authorities have not released details regarding the severity of the injuries.

Both vessels involved were confirmed to be commercial airboats, operating guided tours at the time of the collision.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission led the initial response to the incident. The U.S. Coast Guard has since assumed responsibility as the lead investigative agency due to the commercial nature of the vessels involved.

Additional assistance at the scene was provided by the DeSoto County Sheriff’s Office and DeSoto County Fire Rescue.

Investigators are expected to examine several key factors, including:

• Operator actions and lookout responsibilities
• Speed and navigation through narrow river channels
• Visibility and environmental conditions
• Compliance with commercial boating safety regulations
• Vessel maintenance and operational protocols

No determination regarding fault has been announced at this time.

While airboats are a popular attraction on Florida waterways, collisions can result in serious injuries due to open seating, limited restraints, and the close proximity of passengers to hard surfaces and rotating equipment.

Common injuries in airboat crashes include:

• Head and traumatic brain injuries
• Spinal and neck injuries
• Broken bones and crush injuries
• Lacerations and internal injuries

When airboats are operated commercially, companies and operators are held to heightened safety standards to protect passengers.

Legal Rights of Injured Airboat Passengers

Passengers injured in commercial boating accidents may have the right to pursue compensation for their injuries. Depending on the facts, potential claims may involve:

• Negligence by an airboat operator
• Failure to maintain a safe speed or proper lookout
• Inadequate safety procedures or training
• Violations of state or federal maritime regulations

Injured victims may be entitled to recover damages for:

• Medical expenses
• Lost income
• Pain and suffering
• Long-term rehabilitation needs

Because commercial boating incidents can involve maritime law, these cases are often more complex and time-sensitive than standard personal injury claims.

How Flanagan & Bodenheimer Can Help After a Boating Accident

At Flanagan & Bodenheimer Injury & Wrongful Death Law Firm, we represent victims of serious boating and maritime accidents throughout Florida. We intentionally maintain a small caseload, ensuring clients have direct access to experienced attorneys.

Our team can assist by:

• Conducting an independent investigation
• Preserving vessel and operational records
• Working with maritime safety and accident reconstruction experts
• Identifying all responsible parties and insurance coverage
• Handling communications with commercial operators and insurers

There are no upfront costs. We only recover fees if compensation is obtained.

If you or a loved one was injured in the Peace River airboat collision in DeSoto County, understanding your legal rights is critical.

📞 Contact Flanagan & Bodenheimer Injury & Wrongful Death Law Firm for a free, confidential consultation. We represent boating accident victims throughout DeSoto County and across Florida.