Locations Served

Costa Rica is known for its beautiful beaches, rich wildlife, and tropical ambiance. Thousands flock to Costa Rica each year to enjoy its array of spectacular vistas and natural landscapes, and are drawn to the allure of its coastal attractions. But while Costa Rica may appear to be a blissful oasis for surfers, cruise travelers, and natives alike, this Caribbean nation isn’t always the paradise many perceive it to be.

Several maritime tragedies have transpired throughout the years in Costa Rica, ranging anywhere from serious recreational boating and water sport accidents to cruise ship disasters. And given the Central American nation’s longtime dispute with Nicaragua over the San Juan River, it is often difficult to determine whether Costa Rican or Nicaraguan jurisdiction is pertinent in a maritime accident claim.

Unfortunately, not everyone who is involved in an accident at sea obtains the justice they deserve – let alone an accident that takes place in international waters. Fortunately, victims have the right to seek help with a maritime lawyer, who can help them understand their rights and claim options.

The Truth About Costa Rica’s Maritime Accident Rates

Although Costa Rica has seen an unfortunate share of boating and cruise ship accidents, the vast majority of the nation’s maritime accidents involve drownings. Of all the many appeals that Costa Rica boasts, its beaches are the top tourist attractions. Costa Rica is famous for its stunning beaches and surf, but what not many travelers know is that many Costa Rican beaches have dangerous rip tides.

Statistics show that riptides and rip currents are responsible for approximately 80% of drownings in Costa Rica. Approximately 250 people are killed each year in drowning accidents, with the majority of victims being foreigners. Though natives may be accustomed to the hazards, foreigners may not be aware of the risks that Costa Rica’s oceans can pose. Riptides and rip currents can appear spontaneously and can quickly sweep even the most experienced of swimmers out to sea or engulf them under water if trying to swim against the current. The fact that riptides are not visible from the surface makes them all the more difficult to avoid.

Lifeguards should be present at any beach, but especially at those known to have riptides and rip currents. Yet, there are times when no lifeguards are available to help those in distress. This can lead to serious – if not fatal – injuries for swimmers, surfers, and cruise passengers on a beach-related shore excursion in Costa Rica. Those who have been involved in a near-drowning accident and loved ones of fatal drownings in Costa Rica can turn to a maritime accident attorney for assistance, and may be able to recover damages for their injuries and losses.

Involved in a Maritime Accident in Costa Rica? Our Firm Can Protect Your Rights

Whether you were involved in a boat collision, surfing accident, or nearly drowned while swimming in Costa Rica, the experienced attorneys at Lipcon, Margulies & Winkleman, P.A. can help you obtain justice for your injuries or the loss of a loved one. Our attorneys are well-versed in the intricacies of International Maritime Law and work diligently to protect your rights following a maritime accident in Costa Rican waters, including accidents in San José and Puerto Limón. Contact our firm to schedule a free consultation today with one of our maritime accident lawyers.