Boat Accident Attorneys

If you were injured in a boating accident which was not your fault, you may be entitled to substantial compensation. This could include physical therapy, medical bills and loss of income because of your inability to work.

Some victims may also qualify for punitive damages when the defendant's behavior was egregious or reckless. These kinds of awards are designed to punish the defendant and deter similar misconduct in the future.

Personal Injury

While boating accidents may cause serious injuries, many of them can be avoided. Boat accidents are usually caused by untrained and inexperienced boaters, and other reckless decisions like driving under the under the influence of alcohol, transporting more than one person, and reckless behavior. The injuries could vary from lacerations and bruising to permanent paralysis caused by head injuries or a spinal cord injury.

The victims of a boating accident are entitled to compensation for their medical bills and loss of income or employment during their recovery from injuries. If their injuries are permanent they may also recover costs for long-term care. Unfortunately it is difficult to estimate the value of an injury claim isn't an easy task, and insurance companies often make a deal that is less than what victims deserve. An experienced lawyer can help 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 that all relevant evidence is gathered. This includes the gathering of crucial documents like police reports and witness statements, vessel maintenance documents, chemical tests and photos of the site of the accident as well as the property damage. Other essential information may be gathered from medical records including detailed accounts of the injuries sustained, expenses incurred, and estimates of future costs. The lawyer can then negotiate an acceptable settlement with the person responsible for the accident or the insurance company.

Maritime Workers' Compensation

Workers on workboats as well as other vessels, including supply ships, are subject to hazardous conditions during their work. They are at risk of being injured not only by cargo or equipment falling and cargo, but also due to boat accidents resulting from the negligence or recklessness of others on the vessel.

The Jones Act and other federal statutes protect seamen from employer negligence. They have the right to full compensation under the Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act. These damages could include medical expenses and lost income, as well as the cost of living while recovering from injuries, pain and suffering and other monetary benefits.

Often, seamen who are injured on a supply vessel tugboat, dredger barge, oil tanker, or cruise or sightseeing vessel require more than workers' compensation to cover their injuries. A New York rushville boat accident law Firm accident attorney can identify third party claims that an individual seaman may be eligible for, such as allegations of a lack of seaworthiness or an employer's failure maintain an appropriate vessel.

Your attorney will gather important documents and evidence that pertain to your claim, like medical records and insurance policy information, police reports and more. They will then engage in settlement discussions with the lawyer of the defendant and the insurance company on your behalf. If a fair agreement cannot be reached then they will prepare for trial in order to make a convincing argument in court on behalf of you.

Product Defects

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

Defective equipment and boats can be covered under strict liability, negligence or warranty law. Warranty claims can be caused by a breach of implied or express warranties that are created by law, for example the New Jersey used car lemon laws, or the warranties of quality and fit and finish under the Uniform Commercial Code.

Latent defects are typically covered by insurance policies as well. Although some consumers may claim that the issue is obvious or clear and obvious, courts typically require expert testimony by an expert surveyor or other qualified professional to determine if the mechanical breakdown or damage was caused by an unnoticed condition.

Certain defects are discovered after the boat is sold. These are typically considered manufacturing defects and are the responsibility of the manufacturer. Others are discovered after the rochester boat accident law firm is operated and owned and may be the responsibility of the owner. One example is the case of a boat owner who forgets to drain water from the engine, and the water freezes during winter and damages the motor.

Insurance

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

In the event of boating accidents the injured 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 as well as pain and suffering, diminished quality of life, permanent disability, disfigurement and other costs. Victims may also demand punitive damages in the event of gross negligence or reckless actions by the responsible party.

Insurance companies can be difficult to work with in a boating dispute particularly when their primary goal is to pay the lowest amount they can. Employ a NYC lawyer who will work closely with insurers to hold everyone accountable for their actions.

An experienced attorney will go over all evidence available including police reports as well as medical records. They will also examine witness testimony. Then, they'll engage in negotiations with the at-fault party and their insurance company to negotiate an equitable settlement. If they are unable to agree on the amount of settlement, our lawyers will prepare the case for trial. We are adept at providing evidence to support your claim and obtaining the highest amount of money.