Boat Accident Attorneys

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

Some victims may also qualify for punitive damages in the event that the defendant's conduct was shocking or reckless. These kinds of awards are intended to punish the perpetrator and discourage similar behavior in the future.

Personal Injury

Boating accidents can result in serious injuries, but they are often avoidable. Untrained and inexperienced boaters are the most common cause of boat accidents, along with other reckless choices, such as operating under the influence, bringing too many passengers, or reckless behavior. Injuries can range from bruising and lacerations to permanent paralysis from spinal cord or head injury.

Victims of a boating accident are entitled to compensation for medical bills as well as the loss of income or employment while recovering from their injuries. They can also claim the costs of long-term care when their injuries are permanent. Unfortunately it is difficult to estimate the value of a personal injury claim is not a simple task and insurance companies often try to settle for less than victims need to receive. An experienced lawyer can ensure that you receive the highest settlement that is possible.

A New York City boating accident lawyer will conduct an extensive investigation into the incident to gather all evidence relevant. This includes the collection of crucial documents such as police reports and witness statements, vessel maintenance documents, chemical tests and photographs of the scene of the accident and the property damage. Medical records can provide vital information, like detailed reports on the injuries, expenses, and the cost of future expenses. The lawyer will then bargain with the party at fault or the insurance company to negotiate a fair settlement.

Maritime Workers' Compensation

Workers on workboats and other vessels, like supply ships, are exposed to hazardous conditions throughout their employment. They are at risk of getting injured not just by cargo or equipment falling as well as boat accidents resulting from the negligence or recklessness of other parties aboard the vessel.

Seamen have specific rights under the Jones Act and other federal laws that are designed to protect them from negligence by employers. If they sustain injuries as a result of these incidents, they are entitled to full damages under the Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act (LHWCA). These damages may include medical expenses, lost income, cost of living while recovering as well as pain and suffering and other financial benefits.

Many times, injured seamen on supply vessels, tugboats, firm dredgers, barges, oil tanks cruise or sightseeing boats need more than workers' compensation in order to compensate for their expenses. A knowledgeable New York boat accident lawyer can help identify other third-party claims that a seamen may be able to claim compensation, including allegations of unreliability and the failure of the employer to maintain an appropriate vessel.

Your attorney will collect important documents and evidence in connection with your claim. This includes medical records, information on insurance policies, police reports and many more. They will then engage in settlement negotiations with the lawyer of the defendant and the insurance company on your behalf. If an acceptable settlement cannot be reached, they will then prepare a compelling case for trial on your behalf.

Product Defects

Many boat accidents result from defective equipment. However, the majority of accidents on boats are caused by the reckless or negligent actions of the boat's owner. In those cases, victims can seek compensation from the manufacturer of the defective product through a lawsuit. In these cases, a Reston, VA product defect lawyer can help.

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

Latent defects are often covered by insurance policies, too. While some consumers may suggest that an issue is obvious or obvious, courtrooms frequently require an expert witness from a surveyor, or any other certified professional to determine if an issue with a mechanical component or any other damage was caused by a concealed condition.

There are some defects that are discovered after a boat has been sold. These defects are usually considered manufacturing defects and the manufacturer is responsible for them. Some are discovered after the boat has been owned and operated, and may be the fault of the owner. An example is when a boat accident law firm owner forgets to empty water out of the engine, and that 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 with easy access to Atlantic Ocean and many lakes. Like any other recreational activity there are risks and responsibilities to be considered.

Individuals who have been injured are able to file a personal injury claim or wrongful-death suit to recover damages. Medical expenses and lost income, as well as property losses, as well as pain and suffering are all considered damages. In the event of gross negligence, victims may also pursue punitive damages.

Insurance companies involved in a boating collision case can be difficult to deal with, particularly since their primary goal is to compensate you as little as possible. Choose an NYC lawyer for boating accidents who will work closely with insurance companies to ensure that all parties are held accountable for their actions.

An experienced attorney will review all available evidence including police reports, medical records and witness testimony. Then they will engage in negotiations with the person at fault and their insurance company to secure a fair settlement. If they are unable reach an agreement the attorneys of our firm will prepare for trial. We are experts at the presentation of evidence in support of your claim and securing maximum amount of money.