Boat Accident Attorneys

If you've suffered injuries as a result of a boating accident and it wasn't your fault you may be entitled to a substantial settlement. This could include physical therapy, medical bills as well as lost income because of inability to work.

Certain victims may also be eligible for punitive damages in the event that the defendant's conduct was shocking or reckless. These awards are designed to punish the defendant for their blunders and to prevent future incidents.

Personal Injury

Boating accidents can cause serious injuries, however many are preventable. Untrained and inexperienced boaters are common causes of boat accidents, as are other careless choices such as operating under the influence of alcohol, bringing too many passengers, and reckless behavior. The severity of the injuries vary from minor bruises to paralysis caused by the brain or spinal cord.

Victims who are injured in a boating incident can be compensated for medical expenses and lost income or work while they recover. If their injuries last for a long time they can also claim costs for long-term treatment. Insurance companies frequently try to settle for less money than the victims deserve when estimating a claim's value. A knowledgeable attorney can ensure that you receive the highest settlement that is feasible.

A New York City boat accident lawyer will conduct a thorough investigation into the incident to ensure all relevant evidence is collected. This includes obtaining important documents, such as witness statements and police reports along with logs of vessel maintenance as well as chemical tests and photos of the scene of an accident and the property damage. Medical records can provide vital information, like detailed reports of the injuries, expenses and future costs. The lawyer may then negotiate with the at-fault party or the insurance company to negotiate a fair settlement.

Maritime Workers' Compensation

Maritime workers working on workboats as well as other vessels, including supply ships, are exposed to dangerous conditions during their employment. In addition to being injured by falling equipment or cargo as well as falling equipment, they are also at risk for louisville boat accident lawsuit accidents that result from the negligence or reckless conduct of other parties on board the vessel.

The Jones Act and other federal statutes protect seamen from negligence by employers. If they are injured in such incidents, they're entitled to full damages under the Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act (LHWCA). The damages may include medical expenses and lost wages, as well as the cost of living during recuperation in the event of pain and suffering and other financial benefits.

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

Your attorney will gather important documents and evidence that pertain to your claim, including medical records, insurance policy information or police reports, among others. They will then negotiate an agreement with the attorney representing the defendant as well as an the insurance company that you represent. If a fair agreement cannot be reached, they will prepare for trial so that they can argue a convincing case in court on your behalf.

Product Defects

While the majority of boat crashes occur due to reckless or negligent behavior of the boat's operator, there are also many instances where a crash was actually the result of faulty equipment. In these instances, the victims may sue the company that made the defective product to seek compensation. A Reston, VA, product defect lawyer can assist in these instances.

Defective boats and equipment may be covered under strict liability, negligence, or warranty law. Warranty claims can be based on a breach of implied or express warranties created by law, like the New Jersey lemon laws for used cars or the warranties of merchantability or quality and fit under Uniform Commercial Code.

Insurance policies typically cover hidden problems as well. Although some consumers might claim that a problem is obvious or clear and obvious, courts typically require expert testimony from a surveyor or another expert to determine if the issue was caused by a mechanical malfunction or was caused by an unnoticed problem.

A few defects are discovered when the duncanville boat accident lawyer is sold. These are usually considered to be manufacturing defects and are the responsibility of the manufacturer. Others are discovered after the boat has been operated and owned and could be the responsibility of the owner. One example is when a largo boat accident attorney owner doesn't emptying of the water from the engine and the water freezes and affects the motor in winter.

Insurance

In a state such as New York with easy access to the Atlantic Ocean and numerous lakes, boating and similar water recreational activities are commonplace for residents. However, like most recreational activities, they carry certain risks and liabilities that can have a negative impact on the lives of participants.

When boating accidents happen and people are injured, they can be able to file a personal injury or wrongful death claim for compensation to cover their damages. The damages include medical expenses loss of income, property losses, pain and suffering, diminished quality of life, permanent disability, disfigurement and other costs. In cases of gross negligence, victims can also seek punitive damages.

Insurance companies aren't always easy to work with in a boating dispute, especially when their main goal is to settle as little as they can. Make sure you are level playing field by hiring an NYC lawyer for boating injuries who will work with insurance companies to ensure that all parties are accountable for their actions.

A seasoned attorney will look over all evidence that is available including police reports, medical records, and 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 are unable to reach an agreement, our attorneys will prepare for trial. We are experts in presenting evidence to support your claim and securing the maximum financial award.