What Are Common Causes Of Boating Accidents?
Just like with any vehicle, driving a boat comes with its own unique set of risks and precautions that must be taken. Much like car accidents, however, boating accidents typically occur due to improper safety practices on the part of the driver or mechanical failure.
Below are the most common causes of boating accidents resulting in injury:
- Failure to pay attention to surroundings, including the location of reefs and shoals.
- Inexperienced boat operators.
- Driving the boat at excessive speeds.
- Mechanical failure.
- Not keeping proper distance from other boats.
- Boat operator not receiving proper safety training.
As you can see, many of these causes align with accidents occurring on the highway involving vehicles as well. However, since boats are operating on the open water, there is the added risk of drowning when involved in serious boating accidents.
What Legal Actions Can Be Taken After A Boating Accident?
During the course of investigating a boating accident a certain party may be found to be at fault. For example, if a driver of another boat was intoxicated or operating the boat at unsafe speeds and this behavior resulted in the accident, then that boat operator may be found to be at-fault. In cases where you were involved in a boating accident and another party was found to be negligent, then you may be able to take legal action against them.
However, boat operators are required to have insurance coverage and this coverage should include a liability clause. This means the insurance company of the at-fault boat driver would be responsible for damages. These damages may include things like your medical bills, covering lost wages, pain and suffering or any other loss associated with the accident.
On the other hand if a mechanical part of the boat was found to be faulty, then the manufacturer may be sued for damages. Or, perhaps the boat’s mechanic failed to properly maintain the vessel due to negligence, in which case they too may also be at fault.
As you can see, there are many different scenarios involving boat accident injuries which can occur. This is why it’s important to retain an attorney who is familiar with local laws and boat insurance claims to ensure that you receive the best representation possible.
What Types Of Boat Accidents Can Attorneys Help Me With?
There are many types of accidents and incidents that can occur while aboard a vessel at sea. In fact, you may find yourself needing legal representation for an incident at sea that may not actually involve a boat crash.
The following are some common nautical incidents that may occur while at sea in which you may benefit from legal representation:
- Parasailing accidents.
- Accidents involving jet skis or personal watercraft.
- Accidents aboard a cruise ship including falls, negligence and drowning.
- Crew injuries while onboard.
- Asbestos claims on older vessels.
- Accident while aboard a private yacht.
Many maritime accidents, injuries and incidents can require legal support and counsel. Due to different state laws, finding which party is at fault for a particular accident may be difficult for the average person. However, experienced maritime attorneys can help you navigate the legal process, perform the necessary research and ensure that you receive ample compensation for your injury.
Know You Rights After a Boating Accident
Boating accidents can be very complicated when it comes to who was at fault and which insurance company is responsible for paying out a settlement. If you were involved in a boating accident, then it’s important to speak with a qualified maritime attorney who knows how to protect your rights.
After a boating accident you may be suffering from injuries and require long-term medical care. In addition, you will suffer financial loss from the time you were out of work, or perhaps you may even have to forfeit your job. Between medical issues and lost wages, there may be pain and suffering for both you and your loved ones.
Because it may be difficult to determine the negligent party in a boating accident and insurance companies are always eager to issue a quick, low-ball settlement in hopes you accept it and discharge them from liability, you need an experienced attorney on your side.
Have you been injured in a boating accident? CLICK HERE to get connected with an attorney that can help with your claim.