Clearwater, FL – One Dead After Boat Hits Ferry Near Memorial Cswy

Last updated Tuesday, April 29th, 2025

Clearwater, FL (April 28, 2025) – Late in the evening of April 27, a serious boating accident was reported near the Clearwater Memorial Causeway, leaving at least one person dead and several others hurt. According to officials, the Clearwater Ferry, carrying approximately 45 passengers, was struck by a recreational vessel that fled the scene after the crash. Emergency crews, including the Clearwater Fire and Rescue Department, quickly responded and classified the situation as a mass casualty incident.

Reports from the U.S. Coast Guard confirm that the ferry bore the brunt of the injuries. While the exact number of injured passengers has not been disclosed, those harmed in the collision were rushed to nearby hospitals for immediate medical care. Tragically, authorities announced late that night that one individual passed away as a result of injuries sustained during the accident.

The vessel responsible for the crash was carrying six people when it collided with the ferry. Clearwater Police stated that they have identified the fleeing boat involved in this heartbreaking incident, but investigations remain ongoing. Emergency responders remained at the scene for hours after the crash to assist victims and gather crucial evidence. The accident caused significant disruptions near the Clearwater Memorial Causeway as authorities managed the aftermath.

Our heartfelt sympathies go out to the families affected by this tragedy. We hope for a swift and complete recovery for everyone injured.

Boat Accidents in Florida

In Florida, boating accidents are a significant concern, particularly in coastal communities. According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, the state consistently leads the nation in the number of registered vessels, which naturally results in a high number of boating accidents each year. In 2023 alone, Florida reported over 800 boating accidents, many of which resulted in serious injuries or fatalities. These incidents highlight the importance of vigilance and safety while navigating Florida’s waterways.

When it comes to understanding boating accidents, here are some critical factors to keep in mind:

Operator Inattention: A leading cause of boating accidents is simply not paying close attention to surroundings. This can result in dangerous collisions, especially in busy areas like coastal causeways.
Excessive Speed: Just like on the roads, speeding on the water can drastically reduce a vessel’s ability to avoid hazards, increasing the chances of a serious crash.
Alcohol Use: Boating under the influence is a common cause of accidents. Impairment drastically affects a boater’s judgment and reaction time.
Weather Conditions: Sudden changes in weather, including high winds or rough waters, can make navigation difficult and dangerous, contributing to accidents.
Equipment Failure: Faulty or poorly maintained equipment can lead to loss of control over a boat, which often leads to accidents involving other vessels.
Failure to Follow Navigational Rules: Disregarding standard navigation laws can confuse or surprise other boaters, leading to preventable accidents.

If you or someone you love has been hurt in a boating accident, it is vital to contact a skilled Clearwater boat accident attorney. Acting quickly helps ensure evidence is preserved and your rights are fully protected. Our Clearwater wrongful death attorneys at Rebein Law are ready to advocate on your behalf and help secure the compensation you deserve.

At Rebein Law, we believe that injured victims deserve compassionate support and strong legal representation. Our dedicated team knows how overwhelming the recovery process can be, and we work hard to ease that burden by providing regular updates and efficient case management. Our experienced attorneys will personally manage your case, never handing it off to an inexperienced staff member. Trust us to guide you through the legal process while you focus on healing. Let us be your voice during this difficult time. Call us today at 813-305-7285 to schedule a free consultation.

Note: This post is based on secondary sources, and our team has not independently verified the details of the accident. If you find any inaccuracies, please contact Rebein Law so we can update the post with the correct information. We will also remove the post upon request.

Disclaimer: The purpose of this post is to inform our readers about the dangers of driving and to provide information for people who are injured in an accident in Florida. This post is not a solicitation for business. None of the information provided is intended to be legal or medical advice. The photo used in this post was not taken at the actual accident scene.