Boat Accident Attorneys

If you've been injured as a result of an accident on the water that was not your fault, you could be entitled to a substantial amount of compensation. This could include medical bills, physical therapies and lost income because of your inability to work.

Some victims can be awarded punitive damages in cases where the conduct of the defendant was reckless and egregious. These awards are intended to punish the defendant for their conduct and to prevent future incidents.

Personal Injury

Although boating accidents may cause serious injuries, the majority of them are preventable. Boat accidents are usually caused by inexperienced and untrained boaters, in addition to other careless choices like driving under the effects of alcohol, carrying more than one person, and reckless behavior. The injuries can range from minor bruises to paralysis due to spinal cord or brain injury.

Boating accident victims are entitled to compensation for their medical bills and loss of income or work as they recover from their injuries. If their injuries are permanent they can also claim expenses for long-term care. Insurance companies often try and offer less money than the victims have earned when estimating a claim's value. An experienced lawyer can assist you in negotiating for the highest 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 crucial documents, such as police reports as well as witness statements, vessel maintenance documents, chemical tests and photographs of the accident site and the damage to property. Medical records can provide other crucial information, for example, detailed reports of the injuries, expenses and the future costs. Lawyers can negotiate an acceptable settlement with the person responsible for the accident or the insurance company.

Maritime Workers' Compensation

Workers on workboats as well as other vessels, such as supply ships, are exposed to hazardous conditions throughout their employment. In addition to being injured by falling equipment or Boat Accident Attorney cargo, they are also at risk of accidents caused by negligence or reckless behavior of other passengers on the vessel.

Seamen have rights that are specific to them under the Jones Act and other federal laws designed to protect them from the negligence of employers. They are entitled to full compensation under the Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act. These damages can include medical expenses loss of wages, cost of living during the recovery process in the event of pain and suffering and other financial benefits.

Most often, seamen injured while on a supply ship, tugboat, dredger, barge, oil tanker or cruise or sightseeing boat need more than just workers' compensation to cover their expenses. A New York boat accident attorney can help identify third-party claims an individual seaman may be eligible for claims, for instance, allegations of unsafeness or the employer's negligence in maintaining the safety of the vessel.

Your attorney will collect important documents and evidence pertaining to your claim. These include medical records, details about insurance policies, police reports and more. They will then engage in settlement negotiations with the lawyer for the defendant and the insurance company on your behalf. If there is no fair settlement 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. However, the majority of boat accidents result from the negligent or reckless behavior of the boat's operator. In these instances, the victims may sue the manufacturer who made the defective product to claim compensation. A Reston, VA, product defect lawyer can assist in these instances.

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

Latent defects are often covered by insurance policies as well. While some consumers may suggest that an issue is evident or obvious, courts typically require expert testimony by a surveyor or other certified professional to determine if the mechanical breakdown or another damage was caused by a concealed issue.

Some defects are discovered after a boat is sold. These defects are usually considered manufacturing defects, and the manufacturer is accountable for them. Some are discovered after the boat is operated and owned and may be the owner's fault. One instance is when the owner does not empty the engine's water and boat accident attorney the water freezes, which causes damage to the motor during the winter.

Insurance

In a state such as New York with easy access to the Atlantic Ocean and numerous lakes such as boating, water sports and similar recreational activities are commonplace for residents. But, as with all sports, they also carry certain risks and liabilities that can affect the lives of those who participate.

If boating accidents happen, injured individuals may make a personal injury claim or wrongful death claim for compensation to pay for their damages. Damages include medical expenses, loss of income, property losses as well as pain and suffering, diminished quality of life, permanent disability, disfigurement, and other costs. In the event of gross negligence, victims could also seek punitive damages.

Insurance companies aren't always easy to work with in a boating dispute particularly when their main goal is to compensate the least amount possible. Make sure you are level playing field by hiring an NYC boating injury attorney who will collaborate with insurers to ensure that all parties are accountable for their actions.

An experienced attorney will thoroughly go through all evidence available including police reports, medical records and witness testimony. They will then engage in discussions with the at-fault party and their insurance company to secure an acceptable settlement. If they are unable to come to an agreement, our attorneys will prepare for trial. We are experts at the presentation of evidence in support of your claim and securing the maximum financial award.