Boat Accident Attorneys

If you were injured by an accident in the boating industry, and it was not your fault, boating you may be entitled to a substantial amount of compensation. These costs may include physical therapy, medical bills and income loss due to inability to work.

Some victims may also qualify for punitive damages if the defendant's conduct was shocking or reckless. These kinds of awards are crafted to punish the defendant and discourage similar conduct in the future.

Personal Injury

Boating accidents can result in serious injuries, but a majority are avoidable. Boat accidents are often caused by inexperienced and untrained boaters, as well as other reckless choices such as driving under the influence of alcohol, bringing more than one person, and reckless behavior. The severity of injuries can be anything from bruising and cuts to permanent paralysis due to spinal cord or head injury.

Victims of injuries sustained in a boating accident can receive compensation for their medical expenses and lost income or work as they recuperate. They also have the right to recover costs of long-term care in the event that their injuries are irreparable. Unfortunately, estimating the value of a personal injury claim isn't an easy task, and insurance companies frequently try to make a deal that is less than what victims deserve. An experienced lawyer can help ensure that you receive the highest settlement that is possible.

A New York City boat accident lawyer will conduct a thorough investigation of the incident to ensure that all relevant evidence is gathered. This includes the gathering of crucial documents such as police reports and witness statements, vessel maintenance documents, chemical tests and photos of the accident site and the damage to property. Medical records can also provide essential information, such as detailed reports on the injuries, expenses, and the cost of future expenses. Lawyers can bargain with the party at fault and/or the insurance company for a fair settlement.

Maritime Workers' Compensation

Workers on supply ships, workboats and other vessels are typically exposed to hazardous conditions in the course of working. They are at risk of getting injured not only from cargo or equipment falling, but also by accidents on boats caused by the negligence or carelessness of other people on the vessel.

The Jones Act and other federal statutes protect seamen from negligence by employers. They are entitled to full compensation under the Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act. These damages can include medical expenses and lost wages, as well as the cost of living during recovery in the event of pain and suffering and other financial benefits.

A lot of times, injured seamen on supply vessels, tugboats, dredgers, barges, oil tanks cruise boats, or sightseeing vessels require more than workers' compensation to pay for their expenses. A knowledgeable New York boat accident lawyer can help identify other third-party claims that a seamen could be eligible to recover compensation, including claims of unseaworthiness and the employer's inability to maintain the safety of the vessel.

Your lawyer will gather crucial documents and evidence pertaining to your claim. These include medical records, information about insurance policies, police reports and much more. They will then enter into settlement negotiations with the defendant's lawyer and insurance company on your behalf. If a fair settlement is not reached, they will then prepare a compelling case for trial on your behalf.

Product Defects

Many accidents on boats are caused by defective equipment. The majority of accidents on boats result from the reckless or negligent actions of the boat's owner. In such cases, the victims can seek compensation from the company that produced the defective product by filing a lawsuit. A Reston, VA, product defect lawyer can help in these cases.

Defective boats and equipment could be covered by claims based on negligence, strict liability or warranty law. Warranty claims can be due to a breach of implied or express warranties imposed by law, such as the New Jersey used car lemon laws as well as the warranties of quality and fit and finish under the Uniform Commercial Code.

Latent defects are typically covered by insurance policies, too. While some consumers suggest an issue is evident or obvious, courtrooms often require expert testimony from a surveyor or other expert to determine if the mechanical breakdown or another damage was caused by a concealed problem.

Some defects are discovered after a boat accident lawsuits has been sold. These are typically regarded as manufacturing defects, and the manufacturer is accountable for them. They are often discovered after the boat is operated and owned, and may be the fault of the owner. An example of this is when a boat owner fails to empty water out of the engine, and the water freezes during winter and causes damage to the engine.

Insurance

Boating and other water sports are very popular in New York, a state with easy access to the Atlantic Ocean and many lakes. However, as with most sports, they also carry certain risks and liabilities that can have a negative impact on the lives of participants.

When boating accidents happen victims may pursue a personal injury wrongful-death claim for compensation to pay for their damages. Medical expenses, lost income, property losses, as well as pain and suffering are all examples of damages. Victims may also seek punitive damages in cases of gross negligence or reckless behavior by the party at fault.

Insurance companies aren't easy to work with in a boating dispute especially when their primary goal is to settle the least amount possible. Make sure you are level playing field by hiring a NYC attorney for boating injuries who will work with insurance companies to ensure all parties involved are held accountable for their actions.

An experienced attorney will go over all evidence available such as police reports and medical records. They will also investigate witness testimony. They will then engage in negotiations with both the at fault person and their insurance company in order to negotiate an equitable settlement. If they can't agree on the amount of settlement, our lawyers will prepare the case for trial. We are experts at presenting evidence in support of your claim and securing maximum amount of money.