Boat Accident Attorneys

If you've suffered injuries as a result of an accident while on a boat and it wasn't your fault, you could be entitled to a substantial settlement. These expenses can include physical therapy, medical bills and loss of income because of your inability to work.

Certain victims may also be awarded punitive damages, in the event that the defendant's behavior was reckless and indecent. These awards are intended to punish the defendant for their actions and to discourage future offenses.

Personal Injury

Boating accidents can cause serious injuries but many are avoidable. Untrained and inexperienced boaters are a common cause of boat accidents, along with other careless choices such as driving under the influence, transporting too many passengers, or reckless behavior. The severity of injuries can range from lacerations and bruises to permanent paralysis caused by head injuries or a spinal cord injury.

Victims who are injured in a boating accident can be compensated for medical bills and lost income or job while they recuperate. If their injuries are irreparable they may also recover costs for long-term care. Unfortunately finding out the value of a personal injury claim is not an easy task. Insurance companies frequently try to make a deal that is less than what victims deserve. An experienced attorney can help in negotiating the best settlement possible.

A New York City boat accident lawyer will conduct a thorough investigation into the accident to ensure all relevant evidence is collected. This includes collecting important documents, such as police reports and witness statements along with logs of vessel maintenance chemical tests, and photographs of the scene of an accident and the property damage. Other vital information can be gathered from medical records, including detailed accounts of the injuries sustained, the expenses incurred, as well as estimated future costs. Lawyers can negotiate an acceptable settlement with the at-fault person and/or insurance company.

Maritime Workers' Compensation

Maritime workers working on workboats as well as other vessels, including supply ships, are subject to dangerous conditions during their work. They are at risk of being injured not only from cargo or equipment falling as well as boat accidents caused by negligence or recklessness of others on board the vessel.

Seamen are entitled to certain rights under the Jones Act and other federal laws that protect them from negligence by employers. They are entitled to full compensation under the Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act. These damages can include medical expenses as well as lost wages, the cost of living during recuperation, pain and suffering, as well as other benefits in the form of money.

Often, seamen who are injured on a supply vessel tugboats, dredgers, barges, oil tanks cruise or sightseeing vessels need more than workers' compensation in order to compensate for their losses. A New York boat accident attorney can identify third-party claims that an individual seaman may be entitled to including claims of a lack of seaworthiness or an employer's inability to maintain the safety of the vessel.

Your lawyer will collect crucial documents and evidence related to your claim. These include medical records, details about insurance policies, police reports and much more. They will then enter into settlement negotiations with the lawyer of the defendant and the insurance company on your behalf. If an acceptable settlement cannot be reached, they will prepare a strong case for trial on your behalf.

Product Defects

Many accidents on boats are caused by defective equipment. However, the majority of accidents on boats result from the reckless or negligent behavior of the boat accident lawsuits's operator. In these cases, victims can sue the company responsible for the product to seek compensation. A Reston, VA, product defect lawyer can assist in these instances.

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

Insurance policies often cover latent problems as well. While some consumers suggest an issue is evident or obvious, courtrooms often require an expert witness from a surveyor or other certified professional to determine if an engine failure or other damage resulted from a hidden condition.

Some defects are discovered after the boat is sold. These are usually considered manufacturing defects and are the responsibility of the manufacturer. Others are discovered after a boat is owned and operated and may be the fault of the owner. One instance is when the owner doesn't empty the engine of water and the water freezes, which damages the motor during winter.

Insurance

Boating and other water sports are very popular in New York, a state that has easy access to the Atlantic Ocean and many lakes. However, like all recreation activities, they come with certain risks and liabilities that could have a negative impact on the lives of participants.

In the event of boating accidents victims may make a personal injury claim or wrongful death claim to receive compensation to cover their damages. Medical expenses, boat accident lost income, property losses, as well as suffering and pain are all considered damages. In cases of gross negligence, victims can also seek punitive damages.

Insurance companies involved in a boating collision case aren't easy 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 boating injury attorney who will work with insurance companies to ensure all parties involved are held accountable for their actions.

An experienced attorney will thoroughly review all available evidence that is available, Boat Accident including police reports medical records and witness testimony. They will then engage in discussions with both the at-fault person and their insurance company in order to negotiate a fair settlement. If they are unable reach an agreement then our lawyers will prepare for trial. We are experts at presenting evidence in support of your claim and securing the maximum amount of money.