Find an Attorney After a Boating Accident

Obtaining legal representation following a watercraft accident is crucial. Whether you were the cause of the accident or the victim, obtaining competent legal representation can make dealing with the accident much simpler.

What should you search for in an attorney?

First, you should inquire and locate an attorney that specializes in or at least has experience in boating accidents. Finding a lawyer after an accident – especially a boating accident – may not be your first thought, and it shouldn’t be.  But you should hire an attorney as quickly as possible following the boating accident.

Believe it or not, maritime accidents are subject to the same penalties and fines as automobile accidents. Depending on the severity of the collision, the amount of damages paid is frequently comparable to that of an automobile accident. Obviously, we hope that you already have enough boating insurance, but if you are a victim, you still need as much information as possible.

Powerboats such as runabouts, cabin cruisers, and jet skis are typically the most prevalent vessels engaged in boating accidents, although sailboats can also be involved.

Accidents and incidents involving propellers account for the vast majority of injuries. Due to the fact that personal watercraft such as jet skis cannot be maneuvered when the throttle is disengaged, unskilled drivers frequently collide in an emergency. A boating collision or a person falling over the edge of a watercraft and drowning can result in serious physical harm or even death.

You are required by law to file a formal, written report of an accident as the operator of a vessel. Generally, reports must be made within 48 hours of the accident’s date. This is applicable whether or not there are injuries.

In general, you will only require a lawyer following a boating accident if there is significant damage to the shoreline, the boats, or if there are fatalities or major injuries. Still, it is prudent to make a report with your state marine authority in order to prevent any fines that may result from not filing an accident report.

The collision will be approached in the same manner that a car accident would be. They will advocate for you using precedents to enhance your case.
Their responsibility is to seek compensation for both losses and injuries, if any.

Finding a lawyer after a boating accident is a crucial step to take if you are involved in a collision on the water. Regardless on whose side of the collision you are on, you will be adequately represented and defended.