vandergrift boat accident lawyer Accident Attorneys

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

Certain victims could also be eligible for punitive damages if the defendant's conduct was shocking or reckless. These kinds of awards are intended to punish the offender and discourage similar conduct in the future.

Personal Injury

Accidents on the water can cause serious injuries but many are preventable. Boat accidents are often caused by untrained and inexperienced boaters, as well as other reckless decisions like driving under the effects of alcohol, carrying more than one person, and reckless behavior. The severity of injuries can vary from lacerations and bruising to permanent paralysis due to head injuries or a spinal cord injury.

Victims who suffer injuries by a boating accident could be compensated for medical expenses and loss of earnings or work while they recuperate. They can also recover the costs of long-term medical care in the event that their injuries are irreparable. Unfortunately it is difficult to estimate the value of an injury claim is not a simple task and insurance firms often attempt to accept less than the victims need to receive. An experienced lawyer can help in negotiating the best settlement possible.

A New York City boat accident lawyer will conduct a thorough investigation of the incident to ensure that all relevant evidence is gathered. This includes the gathering of crucial documents, such as police reports as well as witness statements, vessel maintenance records, chemical tests, and photographs of the site of the accident as well as property damage. Other important information can be obtained from medical records, which include detailed accounts of the injuries sustained as well as the expenses incurred and estimated future costs. The lawyer may then negotiate a fair settlement with the person who was at fault and/or insurance company.

Maritime Workers' Compensation

Workers on workboats, supply ships and other vessels are typically exposed to dangers in the course of their employment. In addition to being injured by falling cargo or equipment, they are also at risk of accidents caused by the negligent or reckless behavior of other parties on board the vessel.

Seamen have specific rights under the Jones Act and other federal laws that are designed to protect them from the negligence of employers. They have the right to full compensation under the Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act. The damages could include medical expenses as well as lost income, the cost of living during recovery, pain and suffering as well as other benefits in the form of money.

Most often, seamen injured while on a supply ship tugboat, dredger barge, oil tanker, or cruise or sightseeing vessel require more than just workers' compensation to compensate their loss. A skilled New York boat accident lawyer will be able to identify any other third-party claims where a seaman could be eligible to recover compensation, for instance, allegations of a lack of seaworthiness or the failure of the employer to maintain an appropriate vessel.

Your lawyer will gather crucial documents and evidence regarding your claim, like medical records, insurance policy information and police reports, among others. They will then enter into settlement negotiations with the lawyer of the defendant and insurance company on your behalf. If a fair agreement cannot be reached the lawyers will prepare for trial to present a strong case in the court on behalf of you.

Product Defects

Many accidents on boats are caused by defective equipment. Most boat accidents result from the negligent or reckless actions of the boat operator. In such cases, the victims are able to seek compensation from the company that made the defective product in a lawsuit. A Reston, VA, product defect lawyer can assist in these cases.

Defective boats and equipment may be covered under strict liability, negligence, or warranty law. Warranty claims can be due to a breach of implied or express warranties made by law, like the New Jersey used car lemon laws, or the warranties of merchantability and fit and finish under the Uniform Commercial Code.

Insurance policies typically cover hidden problems as well. While some consumers may suggest that a problem is clear or obvious, courtrooms often require expert testimony from a surveyor, or any other expert to determine if an engine failure or other damage was caused by a concealed problem.

A few defects are discovered when the boat is sold. These defects are typically considered manufacturing defects, and the manufacturer is accountable for the defects. Some are discovered after the boat was operated and owned and could be the fault of the owner. One instance is when the owner doesn't emptying of the water from the engine and the water freezes and damages the motor during winter.

Insurance

In a state such as New York with easy access to the Atlantic Ocean and numerous lakes and waterways, boating and other water recreational activities are commonplace among residents. However, as with most recreational activities, they carry certain risks and liabilities that can affect the lives of those who participate.

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

Insurance companies can be difficult to work with in a boating dispute especially when their primary goal is to pay the least amount possible. Find a NYC boating accident attorney 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 and medical records. They will also examine witness testimony. They will then engage in negotiations with the person at fault and their insurance company to secure a fair settlement. If they cannot agree on an agreement, our lawyers will prepare the case for trial. We are skilled at the presentation of evidence in support of your claim and securing the highest amount of financial compensation.