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 may be entitled a substantial compensation. These expenses may include medical bills, physical therapies and income loss because of inability to work.

Some victims may also qualify for punitive damages if the defendant's conduct was inexplicably reckless. These types of awards are designed to punish the defendant and deter similar misconduct in the future.

Personal Injury

Boating accidents can cause serious injuries but many are avoidable. Boat accidents are often caused by inexperienced and untrained boaters, and other reckless actions like driving under the influence of alcohol, bringing too many people, and reckless behavior. The injuries could range from bruising and lacerations to permanent paralysis caused by injuries to the head or spinal cord.

Boating accident victims are entitled to compensation for their medical bills as well as the loss of work or income as they recover from their injuries. If their injuries are irreparable they can also claim expenses for long-term care. Unfortunately finding out the value of a personal injury claim isn't an easy task, and insurance companies frequently try to make a deal that is less than what victims need to receive. A knowledgeable attorney can assist you in negotiating the highest possible settlement.

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 important documents such as police reports and witness statements, boat maintenance documents, chemical tests and photos of the scene of the accident and the property damage. Medical records can provide crucial information, for example, detailed reports of the injuries, expenses and the cost of future expenses. Lawyers can negotiate an acceptable settlement with the person who was at fault and/or insurance company.

Maritime Workers' Compensation

Workers on workboats, supply ships and other vessels are often exposed to hazardous conditions in the course of their work. In addition to being injured by falling cargo or equipment in the course of their work, they are also at risk of accidents that result from the negligence or reckless actions of other people onboard the vessel.

Seamen are entitled to certain rights under the Jones Act and other federal laws that protect them from employer negligence. They are entitled to full compensation under the Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act. These damages could include medical expenses and lost wages, as well as the cost of living during the recovery process along with pain and suffering and other financial benefits.

Most often, boat accident attorney seamen injured on a supply ship tugboat, dredger, barge, oil tanker, or cruise or sightseeing boat require more than just workers' compensation to pay for their losses. A New York boat accident attorney will be able to identify third-party claims seamen may be eligible for like claims of unreliability or the employer's failure maintain a safe vessel.

Your lawyer will gather crucial documents and evidence related to your claim. These include medical records, information about insurance policies, police reports and many more. They will then enter into settlement negotiations with the lawyer of the defendant and the insurance company on your behalf. If a fair settlement is not reached, they will prepare an effective case for trial on your behalf.

Product Defects

Many accidents on boats are caused by defective equipment. Most accidents on boats result from the reckless or negligent behavior of the boat accident attorney operator. In those instances, victims may seek compensation from the company that manufactured the defective product in a lawsuit. In these situations, an Reston, VA product defect lawyer can help.

Defective boats and equipment could be covered by claims that are based on negligence or strict liability law. A warranty claim can be based on a breach of express or implied guarantees created by law, like the New Jersey lemon laws for used vehicles, or the guarantees of merchantability or fit and finish under Uniform Commercial Code.

Latent defects are usually covered by insurance policies as well. Although some people believe that the issue is obvious or obvious, courts typically require expert testimony from a surveyor, or any other qualified professional to determine if a mechanical breakdown or other damage resulted from a hidden issue.

There are some defects that are discovered after a boat is sold. These defects are typically considered manufacturing defects, and the manufacturer is responsible for the defects. Others are discovered after the vessel is in operation and may be the responsibility of the owner. One example is when the owner doesn't empty the engine of water and the water freezes and causes damage to the motor during the winter.

Insurance

In a state like New York with easy access to the Atlantic Ocean and numerous lakes boats and other water recreational activities are commonplace for residents. As with all recreational activities, there are risks and liabilities that are involved.

When boating accidents happen and people are injured, they can file a personal injury or wrongful death claim to receive compensation to cover their losses. The damages include medical expenses loss of income, property losses in addition to pain and suffering diminished quality of life permanent disability, disfigurement, and other costs. In cases of gross negligence, the victims may also seek punitive damage.

Insurance companies aren't easy to work with in a case involving boats particularly when their main goal is to compensate the lowest amount they can. Level the playing field by hiring a NYC attorney for boating injuries who will work with insurance companies to ensure all parties involved are accountable for their actions.

An experienced lawyer will examine all evidence available, including police reports, medical records, and witness testimony. Then, they'll enter into discussions with the at-fault party and their insurance company to negotiate an equitable settlement. If they cannot agree on a settlement, our attorneys will prepare the case for trial. We are experienced in presenting evidence to support your claim and winning the maximum financial award.