April Fool’s Day Turned Sour

The press recently released the names of those held responsible for the wrongful death of Raul Menendez, 25, after he got sliced by the propellers of the boat he chartered, the Miami Vice, the morning of April Fool’s Day this year. Mauricio Alvarez, 49, the captain and person held responsible for the accident, was arrested at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport attempting to board a flight to leave the country.

The criminal complaint states that two passengers were in the water at the time that the vessel’s engines were started and reverse thrust was engaged. This action would lead to objects near and surrounding the vessel to be pulled towards the propellers – and unfortunately, one of those was Raul Menendez, who was struck and killed.

What we know could lead to a wrongful death and/or negligence lawsuit consists of the facts that Alvarez, “could not see the stern of the vessel or ensure the safety of any remaining swimmers in the water while engaging the engines from this location without assistance from another individual,” according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida. We also know that at the time of the incident, Alvarez did not have a U.S. Captain’s License.

If you or your family have been affected by boating negligence, it is imperative to know and understand your rights. This is why it is important to hire a Miami Personal Injury Attorney in wrongful death cases and negligence cases. Oftentimes, accidents like these can be disheartening and overlooked, but with a lawyer with the right skills and experience, you and your family can receive the justice you deserve.