boat accident law firm Accident Attorneys

If you were injured by an accident in the boating industry, and it was not your fault, you could be entitled a substantial compensation. These expenses may include medical bills, physical therapies and income loss due to inability to work.

Some victims might also be eligible for punitive damages when the defendant's conduct was shocking or reckless. These types of awards are designed to punish the defendant and deter similar misconduct in the future.

Personal Injury

While boating accidents can cause serious injuries, a majority of them are preventable. Untrained and inexperienced boaters are a common cause of boat accidents along with other careless choices such as operating under the influence of alcohol, bringing too many passengers, or reckless behavior. The injuries can range from minor bruising to paralysis due to brain injury or a spinal cord injury.

Victims who are injured in a boating incident can receive compensation for their medical bills and lost income or job while they recover. They also have the right to recover expenses of long-term care in the event that their injuries are irreparable. Unfortunately the process of estimating the value of an injury claim isn't a simple task and insurance firms often attempt to settle for less than victims have a right to. An experienced lawyer can assist you in negotiating for the highest amount of compensation possible.

A New York City boat accident lawyer will conduct a thorough investigation of the accident to ensure that all relevant evidence is gathered. This includes obtaining important documents, such as witness statements and police reports along with logs of vessel maintenance chemical tests, and photographs of the scene of the accident and the property damage. Medical records can also provide vital information, like detailed reports on the injuries, expenses and the cost of future expenses. The lawyer may then negotiate an acceptable settlement with the person at fault or the insurance company.

Maritime Workers' Compensation

Maritime workers on workboats, supply ships and other vessels are frequently exposed to hazardous conditions during the course of their work. In addition to being injured by falling equipment or cargo, they are also at risk of boat accidents that result from the negligence or reckless behavior by other crew members on the vessel.

The Jones Act and other federal statutes protect seamen from employer negligence. They are entitled to full compensation under the Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act. These damages can include medical expenses, lost income, cost of living during recovery the injury, pain and suffering, and other benefits monetary.

A lot of times, injured seamen on a supply vessel such as tugboats or dredgers oil tanks, barges, cruise or sightseeing boats require more than workers' compensation to cover their losses. A New York boat accident attorney will be able to identify third-party claims the seaman could be entitled to like claims of unseaworthiness or the employer's negligence in maintaining the safety of the vessel.

Your lawyer will collect important documents and evidence regarding your claim, such as medical records and insurance policy details, police reports and more. They will then enter into settlement discussions with the lawyer of the defendant and the insurance company on your behalf. If there is no fair settlement reached, they will prepare a compelling case for trial on your behalf.

Product Defects

While most boat accidents occur due to reckless or negligent actions of the boat's operator, there are also many instances when a crash actually caused by defective equipment. In these instances, the victims can sue the company that manufactured the defective product to claim compensation. 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 made by law, for example the New Jersey used car lemon laws or the guarantees of merchantability and fit and finish under the Uniform Commercial Code.

Insurance policies typically cover hidden defects, too. Although some consumers may claim that the issue is evident or obvious but courts typically require expert testimony by an expert surveyor or other qualified professional to determine if the mechanical breakdown or damage was caused due to a hidden condition.

Some defects are found after a boat is sold. They are usually regarded as manufacturing defects and are the responsibility of the manufacturer. They are often discovered after the boat has been operated and owned and may be the owner's fault. One example is when a boat owner forgets the emptying of the engine of water and the water then 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 and waterways, boating and other water recreational activities are commonplace for residents. Like any other recreational activity, there are risks and responsibilities involved.

In the event of boating accidents the injured can be able to file a personal injury or wrongful-death claim for compensation to compensate for their losses. Damages may include medical costs, loss of income, property losses as well as pain and suffering, diminished quality of life, permanent disability, disfigurement and other costs. In the event of gross negligence, victims may also seek punitive damage.

Insurance companies involved in a boating accident case aren't easy to deal with, especially since their primary goal is to compensate you as little as they can. Employ an NYC boating accident attorney who will work closely with insurance companies to hold all parties responsible for their actions.

A seasoned attorney will look over all evidence available including police reports and medical records. They will also examine witnesses' testimony. Then, they'll enter into discussions with the at-fault party and their insurance company to obtain an acceptable settlement. If they are unable agree on a settlement Our lawyers will prepare for trial. We are experts in presenting evidence in support of your claim and securing the maximum amount of money.