Boat Accident Attorneys

If you've suffered injuries as a result of an accident on the water, and it was not your fault, you could be entitled a substantial compensation. These expenses can include physical therapy, medical bills and loss of income due to an inability to work.

Some victims may be awarded punitive damages if the defendant's conduct was reckless and indecent. These types of awards are designed to penalize the defendant and deter similar actions in the future.

Personal Injury

Accidents on the water can cause serious injuries, but a majority are avoidable. Inexperienced and untrained boaters are the main cause of boat-related accidents as well as other reckless choices, such as operating under the influence of alcohol, bringing too many passengers, or reckless behavior. The injuries can range from minor bruises to paralysis due to the brain or spinal cord.

Victims injured in a boating accident can receive compensation for their medical expenses and loss of income or job while they recuperate. They can also claim the expenses of long-term care if their injuries are permanent. Unfortunately finding out the value of an injury claim is not a simple task and insurance companies often settle for less than victims need to receive. An experienced lawyer can ensure that you receive the highest settlement possible.

A New York City boating accident lawyer will conduct an extensive investigation into the incident in order to gather all evidence relevant. This includes the collection of crucial documents such as police reports as well as witness statements, vessel maintenance documents, chemical tests and photos of the scene of the accident and the property damage. Other important information can be obtained from medical records including detailed reports of the injuries suffered, the expenses incurred, as well as estimates of future costs. The lawyer can then negotiate an acceptable settlement with the person at fault or insurance company.

Maritime Workers' Compensation

Maritime workers on workboats, supply ships and other vessels are frequently exposed to dangers in the course of their employment. They are at risk of getting injured not just from cargo or equipment falling but also from boat accidents resulting from the negligence or recklessness of others aboard the vessel.

The Jones Act and other federal statutes protect seamen from negligence by employers. If they suffer injuries due to these incidents, they are entitled to full compensation under the Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act (LHWCA). These damages can be a result of medical expenses, lost wages, cost of living during the recovery process as well as pain and suffering as well as other benefits in the form of money.

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

Your lawyer will gather crucial documents and evidence that pertain to your claim, such as medical records, insurance policy information or police reports, among others. They will then negotiate an agreement with the attorney representing the defendant as well as an the insurance company on your behalf. If a fair and reasonable settlement cannot be reached, they will prepare for trial and argue a convincing case in court on your behalf.

Product Defects

Although the majority of boat accidents happen due to reckless or negligent actions of the boat's owner, there are also many instances where a crash was actually caused by defective equipment. In these instances, the victims may sue the company that made the defective product to obtain compensation. In these cases, a Reston, VA product defect lawyer can assist.

Boats and defective equipment can be covered under strict liability, negligence or warranty law. A warranty claim may be based on a breach of express or implied warranties created by law, like the New Jersey used car lemon laws or the guarantees of merchantability and fit and finish under the Uniform Commercial Code.

Latent defects are typically covered by insurance policies as well. While some consumers may suggest that a problem is clear or obvious, courts typically require an expert witness from a surveyor or other expert to determine if an issue with a mechanical component or any other damage resulted from a hidden problem.

Certain defects are discovered after a boat is sold. These defects are usually considered manufacturing defects and boat accident attorney the manufacturer is accountable for the defects. Other defects are discovered after the boat has been operated and owned and could be the responsibility of the owner. One example is when the boat owner doesn't emptying of the engine of water and the water freezes, which affects the motor in winter.

Insurance

Boating and other water sports are popular in New York, a state with easy access the Atlantic Ocean and many lakes. However, as with most sports, they also carry certain risks and liabilities that can affect the lives of those who participate.

If boating accidents happen, injured individuals may be able to file a personal injury or wrongful death claim for compensation to cover their losses. Damages may include medical costs, loss of income, property loss, 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 collision case are often difficult to deal with, particularly when their primary goal is to pay you the least amount they can. Level the playing field by hiring a NYC lawyer for boating injuries who will work with insurance companies to ensure that all parties are held accountable for their actions.

A seasoned attorney will look over all evidence that is available such as police reports, medical records, and witness testimony. Then they will engage in negotiations with the person at fault and their insurance company to secure an acceptable settlement. If they cannot agree on a settlement, our attorneys will prepare the case for trial. We are skilled at presenting evidence in support of your claim and obtaining the maximum financial award.