Boat Accident Attorneys

If you've been injured in an accident while on a boat, and it was not your fault, you may be entitled to a substantial settlement. These costs could include medical bills, physical therapy and income loss due to the inability to work.

Some victims can also be awarded punitive damages when the conduct of the defendant was reckless and egregious. These awards are designed to punish the defendant for their blunders and also to deter further incidents.

Personal Injury

Boating accidents can result in serious injuries, but they are often preventable. Inexperienced and untrained boaters are the main cause of boat accidents, along with other reckless choices like operating under the influence, bringing too many passengers, or reckless behavior. The injuries could range from bruising and lacerations to permanent paralysis caused by head injuries or a spinal cord injury.

Boating accident victims are entitled to compensation for their medical bills as well as the loss of income or work as they recover from their injuries. If their injuries are severe they may also be able to recover expenses for long-term care. Insurance companies frequently try to settle for less money than the victims should receive when estimating claims' value. 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 of the accident to ensure all relevant evidence is collected. This includes obtaining important documents, including witness statements and police reports along with logs of vessel maintenance chemical tests, and photographs of the accident scene and property damage. Other essential information may be obtained from medical records, including detailed accounts of the injuries sustained, expenses incurred, and estimated future costs. The lawyer can then bargain with the party at fault or the insurance company for an equitable settlement.

Maritime Workers' Compensation

Workers on workboats, supply ships and other vessels are typically exposed to dangers in the course of working. In addition to being injured by falling equipment or cargo, they are also at risk of tigard boat accident lawyer accidents that result from the negligence or reckless conduct by other crew members on the vessel.

The Jones Act and other federal statutes protect seamen from negligence by employers. If they sustain injuries as a result of these kinds of incidents, they are entitled to full damages under the Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act (LHWCA). These damages can include medical expenses loss of wages, cost of living during recuperation, pain and suffering, and other monetary benefits.

Many times, seamen who are injured on a supply vessel tugboat, dredger barge, oil tanker or cruise or sightseeing vessel need more than just workers' compensation in order to cover their expenses. A knowledgeable New York boat accident lawyer will be able to identify any other third-party claims that a seamen could be eligible to recover compensation, including claims of unreliability and the employer's inability to maintain an appropriate vessel.

Your lawyer will gather crucial documents and evidence pertaining to your claim. This includes medical records, information about insurance policies, police reports and much more. 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 settlement is not reached, they will prepare an argument that is strong enough to be tried on your behalf.

Product Defects

Many accidents on boats are caused by defective equipment. However, the majority of accidents on boats result from the negligent or reckless behavior of the boat's owner. In these cases, victims may sue the manufacturer who made the defective product to obtain compensation. In these instances, an Reston, VA product defect lawyer can assist.

Defective boats and equipment may be covered by claims that are based on negligence or strict liability law. A warranty claim may be based on a violation of express or implied guarantees created by law, such as the New Jersey lemon laws for used cars or the warranties of merchantability or fit and finish under Uniform Commercial Code.

Insurance policies usually cover latent problems as well. While some consumers may suggest that a problem is clear or obvious, courts typically require an expert witness by a surveyor or other qualified professional to determine whether an engine failure or other damage resulted from a hidden condition.

Certain defects are discovered after a boat is sold. These are typically considered manufacturing defects and are the responsibility of the manufacturer. They are often discovered after the woodlake boat accident lawyer is operated and owned and may be the owner's fault. One example is when a boater forgets to drain the water out of the engine, and the water freezes during winter and damages the motor.

Insurance

Boating and other water sports are popular in New York, a state that has easy access to the Atlantic Ocean and many lakes. Like any other recreational activity there are risks and responsibilities to be considered.

When boating accidents happen the injured can make a personal injury claim or wrongful death claim to receive compensation to compensate for their losses. 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, the victims could also seek punitive damages.

Insurance companies involved in a boating injury case are often difficult to deal with, particularly when their main goal is to compensate you the least amount they can. Level the playing field by hiring an NYC attorney for boating injuries who will work with insurers to ensure all parties involved are held accountable for their actions.

An experienced attorney will go over all evidence available, including police reports and medical records. They will also review witnesses' testimony. They will then enter into negotiations with both the at-fault person and their insurance company to negotiate an equitable settlement. If they are unable agree on a settlement then our lawyers will prepare for trial. We are experienced in presenting evidence to support your claim and obtaining the highest amount of money.