Boat Accident Attorneys

If you've suffered injuries in an accident on the water which was not your fault, you may be entitled to a substantial amount of compensation. These expenses could include physical therapy, medical bills as well as loss of income due to the inability to work.

Some victims may also be awarded punitive damages, in cases where the conduct of the defendant was reckless and egregious. These awards are designed to penalize the defendant for their conduct and to discourage future offenses.

Personal Injury

Although boating accidents can lead to serious injuries, many of them can be avoided. Boat accidents are usually caused by inexperienced and untrained boaters, and other careless choices like driving under the under the influence of alcohol, transporting too many people, and reckless behavior. Injuries can range from bruising and lacerations to permanent paralysis from head injuries or a spinal cord injury.

Victims injured in a boating accident may be compensated for medical expenses and loss of income or work while they recover. They can also claim the expenses of long-term care for injuries that are permanent. Unfortunately the process of estimating the value of an injury claim isn't an easy task, and insurance firms often attempt to settle for less than victims are entitled to. An experienced attorney will assist you in negotiating for the most lucrative settlement you can get.

A New York City boating accident lawyer will conduct a thorough investigation into the accident to gather all evidence relevant. This includes the gathering of important documents such as police reports and witness statements, vessel maintenance records, chemical tests and photos of the accident site and the damage to property. Medical records can also provide vital information, like detailed reports of the injuries, expenses, and the future costs. The lawyer can then negotiate with the at-fault party or the insurance company for an equitable settlement.

Maritime Workers' Compensation

Maritime workers working on workboats and other vessels, including supply ships, are exposed to dangerous conditions during their work. In addition to being injured by falling equipment or cargo and equipment, they also are at risk for boat accidents caused by the negligent or reckless conduct by other crew members on the vessel.

Seamen have certain rights under the Jones Act and other federal laws that protect them from employer negligence. If they suffer injuries due to these incidents, they are entitled to full compensation under the Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act (LHWCA). The damages could include medical expenses, lost income, cost of living during recovery the injury, pain and suffering, and other monetary benefits.

Many times, injured seamen on supply vessels such as tugboats or dredgers barges, firms oil tanks cruise or sightseeing boats require more than workers' compensation in order to pay for their losses. A New York boat accident attorney can identify third party claims that a seaman may be entitled to like claims of a lack of seaworthiness or an employer's negligence in maintaining an appropriate vessel.

Your attorney will collect crucial documents and evidence that pertain to your claim, including medical records and insurance policy information, police reports and more. They will then negotiate an agreement with the attorney for the defendant and the insurance company you have named. If a fair settlement cannot be reached then they will prepare for trial so that they can make a convincing argument in court on behalf of you.

Product Defects

Many boat accidents result from defective equipment. The majority of accidents on boats result from the reckless or negligent behavior of the boat operator. In these instances, victims can seek compensation from company that manufactured the defective product in a lawsuit. In these instances, a Reston, VA product defect lawyer can assist.

Defective boats and equipment may be covered by claims based on negligence, strict liability or warranty law. A warranty claim can be caused by a breach of express or implied warranties created by law, for example the New Jersey used car lemon laws or the guarantees of the merchantability and fit and finishing under the Uniform Commercial Code.

Latent defects are often covered by insurance policies too. While some people may argue that a problem is evident or obvious however, courts usually require expert testimony from a surveyor or another certified professional to determine if an issue with a mechanical component or damage resulted from an unnoticed problem.

There are some defects that are discovered after a boat is sold. These are usually considered to be manufacturing defects and are the responsibility of the manufacturer. Some are discovered after the boat has been owned and operated, and may be the owner's fault. One example is when the owner doesn't emptying of the engine of water and the water then freezes and damages the motor in the winter.

Insurance

In a state such as New York with easy access to the Atlantic Ocean and numerous lakes boats and other water recreational activities are commonplace among residents. Like any other recreational activity, there are risks and responsibilities involved.

In the event of boating accidents victims may pursue a personal injury wrongful death claim to cover their losses. Damages can include medical expenses, loss of income, property loss as well as pain and suffering, diminished quality of life, permanent disability, disfigurement and other expenses. Victims can also pursue punitive damages in instances of gross negligence or reckless actions by the responsible party.

Insurance companies involved in a boating collision case are often difficult to deal with, especially when their primary goal is to settle the case the least amount they can. Employ a NYC lawyer who will work closely with insurers to ensure that all parties are held accountable for their actions.

A seasoned attorney will look over all evidence available such as police reports and medical records. They will also look into witness testimony. Then, they'll engage in discussions with the party at fault and their insurance company to secure a fair settlement. If they can't agree on an agreement, our lawyers will prepare the case for trial. We are experienced in providing evidence to support your claim and obtaining the maximum financial award.