Boat Accident Attorneys

If you've suffered injuries as a result of an accident while on a boat, and it was not your fault, you may be entitled to a substantial amount of compensation. This could include medical bills, physical therapy and loss of income because of your inability to work.

Some victims might also be eligible for punitive damages if the defendant's conduct was inexplicably reckless. These kinds of awards are crafted to punish the defendant and deter similar actions in the future.

Personal Injury

Accidents on the water can cause serious injuries, however many are preventable. Boat accidents are often caused by inexperienced and untrained boaters, in addition to other reckless choices such as driving under the under the influence of alcohol, transporting many passengers, and reckless behavior. The severity of injuries ranges from minor bruising to paralysis due to brain or spinal cord injuries.

Victims of boating accidents are entitled to compensation for their medical bills as well as the loss of work or income while they recover from injuries. They also have the right to recover costs of long-term care when their injuries are permanent. Insurance companies often try and settle for less than the victims should receive when estimating claims' value. A skilled attorney can assist you in negotiating for the highest settlement possible.

A New York City boat accident lawyer will conduct a thorough investigation of the incident to ensure all relevant evidence is gathered. This includes obtaining important documents, including witness statements and police reports as well as logs of maintenance for the vessel chemical tests, photographs of the accident scene and the property damage. Other important information can be gathered from medical records that include detailed descriptions of the injuries sustained, the expenses incurred, as well as estimates of future costs. The lawyer may then bargain with the party at fault or the insurance company for a fair settlement.

Maritime Workers' Compensation

Maritime workers on supply ships, workboats and other vessels are typically exposed to dangerous conditions in the course of working. They are at risk of being injured not just from falling equipment or cargo but also from boat accidents caused by the negligence or recklessness of others on board the vessel.

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

Many times, seamen who are injured while on a supply ship tugboat, dredger or tugboat barge, oil tanker, or cruise or sightseeing boat require more than just workers' compensation in order to cover their injuries. A skilled New York boat accident lawyer can help identify other third-party claims that a seamen may be able to claim compensation, including allegations of unseaworthiness and the employer's inability to maintain an appropriate vessel.

Your attorney will collect important documents and evidence pertaining to your claim. These include medical records, information on 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 the settlement is not fair agreed upon, they will create a compelling case for trial on your behalf.

Product Defects

Although the majority of boat accidents happen due to negligent or reckless behavior of the boat's owner There are also cases where a crash is actually the result of faulty equipment. In these cases, victims may sue the company that manufactured the defective product to claim compensation. A Reston, VA, product defect lawyer can assist in these instances.

Defective boats and equipment may be covered under strict liability, negligence or warranty law. A warranty claim could be caused by a breach of implied or express warranties that are created by law, such as the New Jersey used car lemon laws or the guarantees of the merchantability and fit and finishing under the Uniform Commercial Code.

Latent defects are typically covered by insurance policies as well. Although some consumers may claim that a problem is obvious or clear but courts typically require expert testimony by an expert surveyor or other qualified professional to determine whether an issue with a mechanical component or damage was caused by an unnoticed issue.

Some defects are discovered after the boat is sold. These are usually considered to be manufacturing defects and are the responsibility of the manufacturer. They are often discovered after the boat has been owned and operated, and may be the owner's fault. One example is when a boat owner fails to drain the water from the engine, and that water freezes in the winter months and causes damage to the motor.

Insurance

In a state such as New York with easy access to the Atlantic Ocean and numerous lakes and waterways, boating and other water recreational activities are commonplace for residents. However, as with most recreation activities, they come with certain risks and liabilities that can affect the lives of those who participate.

Injured individuals are able to file a personal injury claim or wrongful death suit to seek compensation. The damages include medical expenses loss of income, property losses as well as pain and suffering, diminished quality of life permanent disability, disfigurement and other expenses. Victims can also pursue punitive damages in instances of reckless or gross negligence behavior by the party at fault.

Insurance companies aren't easy to work with in a case involving boats particularly when their primary goal is to settle the lowest amount they can. Hire an NYC lawyer for a boating accident who will work closely with insurers to ensure that all parties are held accountable for their actions.

An experienced attorney will review all evidence available including police reports as well as medical records. They will also look into witnesses' testimony. Then they will engage in discussions with the party at fault and their insurance company to obtain an equitable settlement. If they are unable reach an agreement then our lawyers will prepare for trial. We are experienced in the presentation of evidence in support of your claim and securing maximum amount of money.