Florida Maritime Attorney Discusses Issue of Modern-Day Piracy

Due to a loophole in federal admiralty law, maritime salvage and towing companies are able to take advantage of Florida boaters by charging exorbitant fees for salvage claims.

Tampa attorney Paul Parrish specializes in maritime law and has represented multiple clients who have be been charged by predatory salvage and towing companies.

“In some cases, it can be likened to modern day piracy,” Parish said. “Unfortunately the laws that are in place do not provide the consumer protections Floridians are used to when they’re on land.”

New legislation filed by Florida lawmakers earlier this month would require maritime salvage and towing companies to present boaters with written cost estimates before providing assistance on the water.

The proposed legislation will bring transparency to Florida boaters and accountability to the industry as a whole.

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