boat accident law firm Accident Attorneys

If you've suffered injuries in an accident while on a boat accident attorneys that was not your fault, you could be entitled to a substantial amount of compensation. This could include physical therapy, medical bills and lost income due to the inability to work.

Certain victims could also be eligible for punitive damages if the defendant's behavior was egregious or reckless. These awards are intended to punish the defendant for their actions and also to deter further incidents.

Personal Injury

Boating accidents can result in serious injuries, however many are preventable. Boat accidents are usually caused by untrained and inexperienced boaters, and other reckless decisions like driving under the influence of alcohol, bringing many passengers, and reckless behavior. The severity of injuries can range from lacerations and bruises to permanent paralysis from neck or spinal cord injuries.

Victims who suffer injuries by a boating accident could get compensation for their medical expenses and loss of income or work as they recuperate. If their injuries are severe, they can also recover expenses for long-term care. Insurance companies often try and settle for less money than the victims should receive when estimating claims' value. An experienced lawyer can fight for the maximum settlement possible.

A New York City boating accident lawyer will conduct an extensive investigation into the accident in order to collect all relevant evidence. This includes the gathering of important documents such as police reports as well as witness statements, vessel maintenance documents, chemical tests and photos of the accident site and the damage to property. Other crucial information can be gathered from medical records including detailed descriptions of the injuries sustained, expenses incurred, and estimates of future costs. Lawyers can negotiate with the at-fault party or the insurance company to negotiate an equitable settlement.

Maritime Workers' Compensation

Maritime workers working on workboats and other vessels, including supply ships, are exposed to hazardous conditions throughout their employment. They are at risk of being injured not only by falling equipment or cargo, but also by boat accidents caused by the negligence or recklessness of other parties on the vessel.

The Jones Act and other federal statutes protect seamen from negligence by employers. They have the right to full compensation under the Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act. These damages may include medical expenses, lost income, cost of living while recovering the injury, pain and suffering, and other benefits monetary.

A lot of times, injured seamen on supply vessels tugboats, dredgers, oil tanks, barges cruise or sightseeing boats need more than workers' compensation to cover their expenses. A New York boat accident attorney will be able to identify third-party claims the seaman could be eligible for like claims of a lack of seaworthiness or an employer's inability to maintain the safety of the vessel.

Your lawyer will collect important documents and evidence regarding your claim, including medical records and insurance policy information, Boat Accident Attorney police reports and more. They will then negotiate an agreement with the defendant's attorney and insurance company in your name. If an acceptable settlement cannot be agreed upon, they will create an argument that is strong enough to be tried on your behalf.

Product Defects

Many boat accidents are caused by defective equipment. The majority of boat accidents result from the reckless or negligent actions of the boat's operator. In those cases, victims can seek compensation from the company that manufactured the defective product through a lawsuit. In these cases, an Reston, VA product defect lawyer can help.

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 breach of implied or express warranties made by law, for example the New Jersey used car lemon laws or the guarantees of quality and fit and finish under the Uniform Commercial Code.

Latent defects are usually covered by insurance policies, boat accident attorney too. Although some people believe that an issue is evident or obvious, courts often require an expert witness from a surveyor or other qualified professional to determine if an engine failure or other damage was caused by a concealed issue.

There are some defects that are discovered after a boat is sold. These are typically considered manufacturing defects and are the responsibility of the manufacturer. Some are discovered after the vessel is in operation and could be the fault of the owner. An example of this is when a boat owner forgets to drain the water from the engine, and the water freezes in 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 the Atlantic Ocean and many lakes. But, as with all recreational activities, they carry certain risks and liabilities that could affect the lives of the participants.

Injured people are able to file a personal injury claim or wrongful death lawsuit to seek compensation. Damages may include medical costs, loss of income, property loss along with pain and suffering, diminished quality of life permanent disability, disfigurement and other costs. Victims may also seek punitive damages in cases of gross negligence or reckless behaviour by the at-fault party.

Insurance companies involved in a boating accident case aren't easy to deal with, particularly since their main objective is to pay you as little as they can. Make sure you are level playing field by hiring a NYC boating injury attorney who will work with insurance companies to ensure that all parties are accountable for their actions.

An experienced attorney will thoroughly look over all evidence that is available such as police reports, medical records, and witness testimony. They will then enter into discussions with both the at-fault person and their insurance company to reach a fair settlement. If they cannot reach a settlement, our attorneys will prepare for trial. We are skilled at presenting evidence to support your claim and securing maximum amount of money.