Boat Accident Attorneys

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

Some victims may be awarded punitive damages in cases where the conduct of the defendant was egregious and reckless. These types of awards are designed to punish the perpetrator and deter similar misconduct in the future.

Personal Injury

While boating accidents may cause serious injuries, many of them are preventable. Inexperienced and untrained boaters are the main cause of boat-related accidents as well as other careless choices such as operating under the influence, transporting too many passengers, and reckless behavior. Injuries can vary from lacerations and bruising to permanent paralysis caused by neck or spinal cord injuries.

Victims injured in a boating accident can get compensation for their medical expenses and lost income or work as they recuperate. They also have the right to recover costs of long-term care if their injuries are permanent. Unfortunately finding out the value of an injury claim is not an easy task, and insurance firms often attempt to offer less than what victims need to receive. A knowledgeable attorney can help you fight for the highest settlement possible.

A New York City boat accident attorney accident lawyer will conduct a thorough investigation of the incident to ensure that all relevant evidence is gathered. This includes gathering important documents, including police reports and witness statements, vessel maintenance logs, chemical tests and photographs of the scene of the accident and the property damage. Medical records can also provide crucial information, for firms example, detailed reports of the injuries, expenses, and the cost of future expenses. Lawyers can bargain with the party at fault or the insurance company to negotiate a fair settlement.

Maritime Workers' Compensation

Maritime workers working on workboats and other vessels, including supply ships, are exposed to hazardous conditions during their work. They are at risk of being injured not just from cargo or equipment falling, but also by boat accidents caused by negligence or inattention of other passengers aboard 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 can include medical expenses and lost income, as well as the cost of living during recovery from injuries, pain and suffering and other financial benefits.

Often, seamen who are injured while on a supply ship tugboat, dredger barge, oil tanker or cruise or sightseeing vessel need more than just workers' compensation to cover their injuries. A New York boat accident attorney can identify third-party claims that a seaman may be eligible for including claims of unsafeness or the employer's inability to keep an appropriate vessel.

Your lawyer will gather important documents and evidence related to your claim. This includes medical records, information regarding insurance policies, police reports and many more. They will then negotiate an agreement with the attorney representing the defendant as well as an insurance company in your name. If the settlement is not fair reached, they will prepare a compelling case for trial on your behalf.

Product Defects

Many boat accidents are caused by defective equipment. Most accidents on boats result from the reckless or negligent actions of the boat's operator. In these instances, the victims can sue the company that made the defective product to seek compensation. In these situations, a Reston, VA product defect lawyer can assist.

Defective boats and equipment could be covered by claims that are based on negligence, strict liability or warranty law. A warranty claim can be due to a breach of implied or express warranties imposed by law, such as the New Jersey used car lemon laws as well as the warranties of fit and finish and merchantability under the Uniform Commercial Code.

Insurance policies often cover latent problems as well. While some people may argue that a problem is obvious or firms clear and obvious, courts typically require expert testimony by a surveyor or other qualified professional to determine if an issue with a mechanical component or damage was caused by an unnoticed condition.

Certain defects are discovered after a boat is sold. These are typically regarded as manufacturing defects and the manufacturer is accountable for these. Others are discovered after the boat is operated and owned and may be the responsibility of the owner. An example of this is when a boater forgets to empty water out of the engine, and the water freezes in the winter months and causes damage to 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. As with all recreational activities, there are risks and responsibilities involved.

Injured people can file a personal injury claim or wrongful death suit to recover damages. Damages can include medical expenses, loss of income, property loss in addition to pain and suffering diminished quality of life permanent disability, disfigurement, and other expenses. In cases of gross negligence, the victims may also pursue punitive damages.

Insurance companies involved in a boating injury case can be difficult to work with, especially since their primary goal is to settle the case as little as they can. Bring the game level by hiring a NYC boating injury attorney who will work with insurers to ensure all parties involved are accountable for their actions.

A seasoned attorney will look over all evidence available including police reports and medical records. They will also review witness testimony. They will then engage in discussions with the at-fault party and their insurance company to secure an acceptable settlement. If they are unable come to an agreement then our lawyers will prepare for trial. We are proficient in presenting evidence in support of your claim and obtaining the maximum financial award.