Boat Accident Attorneys

If you've been injured as a result of an accident with a boat that wasn't your fault, you may be entitled to substantial compensation. This could include medical bills, physical therapy and income loss due to inability to work.

Some victims can also be awarded punitive damages, in cases where the conduct of the defendant was reckless and indecent. These kinds of awards are intended to punish the perpetrator and deter similar misconduct in the future.

Personal Injury

Although boating accidents can lead to serious injuries, many of them can be avoided. Untrained and inexperienced boaters are a common cause of boat accidents, along with other careless choices such as driving under the influence, bringing too many passengers, and reckless behavior. The severity of injuries ranges from minor bruises to paralysis caused by the brain or spinal cord.

Victims of injuries sustained in a boating accident can receive compensation for their medical expenses as well as lost income or work as they recuperate. They may also be able to recover the expenses of long-term care when their injuries are permanent. Insurance companies frequently try to settle for less than the victims are entitled to when estimating a claim's value. An experienced attorney can help ensure that you receive the highest settlement possible.

A New York City boating accident lawyer will conduct a thorough investigation into the accident to gather all evidence relevant. This includes collecting important documents like witness statements and police reports along with logs of vessel maintenance chemical tests, and photographs of the scene of the accident as well as property damage. Medical records can provide important information, including detailed reports on the injuries, expenses and any future costs. The lawyer can then negotiate a fair settlement with the person responsible for the accident or the insurance company.

Maritime Workers' Compensation

Maritime workers on workboats, supply ships and other vessels are frequently exposed to dangers in the course of working. In addition to being injured by falling equipment or boat accident law Firm cargo as well as falling equipment, they are also at risk of being involved in boat accidents caused by negligence or reckless conduct of other people onboard the vessel.

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

Many times, seamen who are injured while on a supply ship, tugboat, dredger, barge, oil tanker or cruise or sightseeing boat require more than workers' compensation to cover their expenses. A New York longview boat accident law firm accident attorney can help identify third-party claims the seaman could be eligible for like claims of unreliability or the employer's inability to keep a safe vessel.

Your lawyer will collect crucial documents and evidence related to your claim. This includes medical records, details about insurance policies, police reports, and more. They will then negotiate a settlement with the attorney for the defendant and the insurance company that you represent. If an acceptable settlement cannot be reached, they will then prepare a strong case for trial on your behalf.

Product Defects

While the majority of boat crashes occur because of reckless or negligent actions of the oak hill boat accident law firm's owner However, there are a number of instances where a crash was actually caused by faulty equipment. In such cases, the victims may seek compensation from the company that made the defective product in a lawsuit. A Reston, VA, product defect lawyer can help in these instances.

Defective boats and equipment could be covered by claims that are based on negligence or strict liability law. A warranty claim can be based on a breach of express or implied guarantees provided by law, for example the New Jersey lemon laws for used vehicles, or the guarantees of merchantability or fit and finish under Uniform Commercial Code.

Insurance policies usually cover latent defects as well. Although some consumers may claim that a problem is evident or obvious, courts often require expert testimony by an engineer or other certified professional to determine if a mechanical breakdown or damage was caused due to an unnoticed problem.

There are some defects that are discovered after a boat has been sold. These are generally deemed manufacturing defects, and the manufacturer is accountable for these. Others are discovered after a vessel is in operation and could be the fault of the owner. An example of this is the case of a hallandale Beach boat accident lawyer owner who forgets to drain the water out of the engine, and that water freezes during winter months and causes damage to the motor.

Insurance

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

Injured persons can file a personal injury claim or wrongful death suit to recover damages. Damages can include medical expenses, loss of income, property loss, pain and suffering, diminished quality of life, permanent disability, disfigurement and other costs. In the event of gross negligence, victims may also seek punitive damage.

Insurance companies can be difficult to negotiate with in a case involving a boat especially when their primary objective is to pay the least amount possible. Find an NYC lawyer for boating accidents who will work closely with insurers to hold all parties responsible for their actions.

An experienced lawyer will scrutinize all evidence available including police reports as well as medical records. They will also investigate witness testimony. They will then enter into negotiations with both the at-fault person and their insurance company to reach an acceptable settlement. If they fail to come to an agreement, our attorneys will prepare for trial. We are experts in the presentation of evidence in support of your claim and securing the maximum amount of financial compensation.