Boat Accident Attorneys

If you've been injured as a result of an accident while on a boat, and it was not your fault, you may be entitled to a substantial amount of compensation. These costs could include medical bills, physical therapy and loss of income due to the inability to work.

Some victims might also be eligible for punitive damages if defendant's behavior was egregious or reckless. These kinds of awards are designed to punish the perpetrator and discourage similar conduct in the future.

Personal Injury

Boating accidents can result in serious injuries, but a majority are preventable. Untrained and inexperienced boaters are a common cause of Youngsville boat accident lawyer accidents, as are other careless choices such as operating under the influence of alcohol, bringing too many passengers, or reckless behavior. The injuries could be anything from bruising and cuts to permanent paralysis resulting from spinal cord or head injury.

Victims of injuries sustained in a boating incident can receive compensation for Boat Accident Law Firm their medical expenses and lost income or job while they recuperate. If their injuries are severe they may also recover costs for long-term medical care. Insurance companies often try and settle for less than the victims should receive when estimating claims' value. An experienced lawyer can help to get the highest settlement possible.

A New York City boating accident lawyer will conduct a thorough investigation into the incident in order to collect all relevant evidence. This includes the collection of important documents such as police reports as well as witness statements, vessel maintenance reports, chemical tests and photographs of the accident site and the damage to property. Other important information can be obtained from medical records, which include detailed descriptions of the injuries sustained, expenses incurred, and estimated future costs. The lawyer may then negotiate a fair settlement with the person who was at fault or insurance company.

Maritime Workers' Compensation

Maritime workers on workboats, supply ships and other vessels are typically exposed to dangerous conditions in the course of their employment. In addition to being injured by falling equipment or cargo and equipment, they also are at risk for boat accident lawsuit accidents caused by negligent or reckless behavior of other parties on board the vessel.

Seamen have specific rights under the Jones Act and other federal laws designed to protect them from employer negligence. If they sustain injuries as a result of these types of incidents, they are entitled to full damages under the Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act (LHWCA). These damages could include medical expenses as well as lost wages, the cost of living during the recovery process in the event of pain and suffering and other financial benefits.

In many cases, injured seamen on supply vessels, tugboats, dredgers, barges, oil tanks cruise or sightseeing boats need more than workers' compensation to pay for their losses. A knowledgeable New York boat accident lawyer can identify other third-party claims that a seaman may be able to claim compensation, including claims of unreliability and the failure of the employer to maintain the safety of the vessel.

Your lawyer will gather crucial documents and evidence related to your claim, including medical records and insurance policy details and police reports, among others. They will then negotiate an agreement with the attorney for the defendant and the insurance company you have named. If there is no fair settlement reached, they will prepare an effective case for trial on your behalf.

Product Defects

Many boat accidents result from defective equipment. While the majority of boat accidents are caused by the reckless or negligent behavior of the boat's operator. In these cases, victims can sue the company who made the defective product to claim compensation. A Reston, VA, product defect lawyer can assist in these cases.

Boats and defective equipment can be covered under strict liability, negligence or warranty law. A warranty claim can be based on a breach of express or implied guarantees that are imposed by law, for example the New Jersey lemon laws for used vehicles or the warranties of merchantability, or quality and fit under Uniform Commercial Code.

Insurance policies can cover nebulous defects, too. While some consumers may suggest that a problem is clear or obvious, courts typically require expert testimony from a surveyor or other qualified professional to determine if an issue with a mechanical component or any other damage was caused by a hidden problem.

Certain defects are discovered after a boat has been sold. These defects are usually considered manufacturing defects and the manufacturer is accountable for the defects. They are often discovered after the boat has been owned and operated and could be the fault of the owner. An example is when a boater forgets to empty water out of the engine, and that water freezes in the winter and causes damage to the engine.

Insurance

Boating and other water sports are popular in New York, a state with easy access to Atlantic Ocean and many lakes. Like any other recreational activity there are risks and liabilities involved.

If boating accidents happen victims may file a personal injury or wrongful death claim to pay for their damages. Damages can include medical expenses, loss of income, property losses, pain and suffering, diminished quality of life, permanent disability, disfigurement, and other costs. Victims may also pursue punitive damages in instances of gross negligence or reckless behaviour by the at-fault party.

Insurance companies involved in a boating accident case can be difficult to deal with, especially since their main goal is to settle the case the least amount they can. Level the playing field by hiring an NYC attorney for boating injuries who will collaborate with insurers to ensure that all parties are held accountable for their actions.

An experienced lawyer will scrutinize all evidence available including police reports as well as medical records. They will also review witness testimony. They will then engage in negotiations with both the at fault person and their insurance company to negotiate an equitable settlement. If they cannot agree on an agreement, our lawyers will prepare the case for trial. We are proficient in presenting evidence to support your claim and obtaining the maximum financial award.