Boat Accident Attorneys

If you've been injured as a result of an accident on the water that wasn't your fault, you could be entitled to substantial compensation. These expenses may include medical bills, physical therapies as well as lost income because of inability to work.

Certain victims could also be eligible for punitive damages if defendant's conduct was inexplicably reckless. These types of awards are designed to penalize the defendant and discourage similar behavior in the future.

Personal Injury

Boating accidents can result in serious injuries, but they are often preventable. Boat accidents are usually caused by untrained and inexperienced boaters, as well as other reckless choices such as driving under the influence of alcohol, carrying 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 incident can receive compensation for their medical expenses and loss of income or work as they recover. If their injuries are permanent they can also claim costs for long-term care. Unfortunately finding out the value of an injury claim isn't an easy task, and insurance companies often accept less than the victims have a right to. A knowledgeable attorney can ensure that you receive the highest settlement that is possible.

A New York City boating accident lawyer will conduct an extensive investigation into the incident to gather all evidence relevant. This includes obtaining important documents, like police reports and witness statements and logs of maintenance on the vessel, chemical tests and photographs of the accident scene and the property damage. Medical records can provide essential information, such as detailed reports of the injuries, expenses and future costs. Lawyers can negotiate an acceptable settlement with the at-fault person or the insurance company.

Maritime Workers' Compensation

Workers on workboats and other vessels, like supply ships, are subject to hazardous conditions throughout their employment. They are at risk of getting injured not only from cargo or equipment falling but also from accidents on boats caused by the negligence or recklessness of other parties on the vessel.

Seamen have certain rights under the Jones Act and other federal laws that protect them from the negligence of employers. If they sustain injuries as a result of these kinds of incidents, they are entitled to full compensation under the Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act (LHWCA). The damages may include medical expenses, lost wages, cost of living during recuperation in the event of pain and suffering and other monetary benefits.

Most often, seamen injured on a supply boat tugboat, dredger or tugboat barge, oil tanker, or cruise or sightseeing Morehead Boat Accident Law Firm need more than just workers' compensation in order to cover their injuries. A New York boat accident attorney can identify third party claims that an individual seaman may be entitled to claims, for instance, allegations of unseaworthiness or the employer's inability to keep a safe vessel.

Your attorney will gather important documents and evidence that pertain to your claim, including medical records, insurance policy information and police reports, among others. They will then enter into settlement negotiations with the defendant's lawyer and the insurance company on your behalf. If a fair settlement is not able to be reached the lawyers will prepare for trial and argue a convincing case in court on behalf of you.

Product Defects

Many accidents on boats result from defective equipment. The majority of accidents on boats result from the negligent or reckless actions of the palmerton boat accident law firm's owner. In these instances, the victims may sue the company that made the defective product to claim compensation. A Reston, VA, product defect lawyer can assist in these cases.

Defective equipment and boats could be covered by claims that are based on negligence or strict liability law. A warranty claim may be based on a violation of implied or express warranties that are imposed by law, like the New Jersey lemon laws for automobiles used for sale or the warranties of merchantability, or quality and fit under Uniform Commercial Code.

Latent defects are typically covered by insurance policies as well. Although some people believe that a problem is clear or obvious, courtrooms frequently require expert testimony from a surveyor, or any other qualified professional to determine if an engine failure or other damage was caused by a hidden condition.

Certain defects are discovered after a boat is sold. These are generally deemed manufacturing defects and the manufacturer is responsible for them. Others are discovered after a salem boat accident lawsuit is operated and owned and could be the fault of the owner. An example of this is the case of a boat owner who forgets to empty water out of the engine, and the water freezes in the winter, causing damage to the motor.

Insurance

In a state like New York with easy access to the Atlantic Ocean and numerous lakes such as boating, water sports and similar recreational activities are commonplace for residents. As with all recreational activities there are risks and responsibilities associated with it.

Injured people may file a personal injury claim or wrongful death suit to seek compensation. Medical expenses, lost income, property losses and suffering and pain are all examples of damages. In cases of gross negligence, the victims can also seek punitive damages.

Insurance companies can be difficult to negotiate with in a boating case particularly when their main objective is to pay the least amount possible. Choose a NYC lawyer for a boating accident who will work closely with insurance companies to hold them accountable for their actions.

An experienced attorney will go through all evidence available including police reports, medical records and witness testimony. They will then engage in discussions with the party at fault and their insurance company to obtain an acceptable settlement. If they fail to reach an agreement, our attorneys will prepare for trial. We are proficient in the presentation of evidence to support your claim and obtaining the maximum financial award.