Boat Accident Attorneys

If you were injured in a boating accident that wasn't your fault, you may be entitled to substantial compensation. This could include medical bills, physical therapy as well as loss of income due to an inability to work.

Some victims can also be awarded punitive damages in the event that the defendant's behavior was egregious and reckless. These types of awards are designed to punish the offender and deter similar misconduct in the future.

Personal Injury

Although boating accidents can cause serious injuries, a lot of them can be avoided. Boat accidents are usually caused by inexperienced and untrained boaters, and other reckless actions like driving under the influence of alcohol, bringing more than one person, and reckless behavior. The injuries can range from minor bruises to paralysis resulting from brain or spinal cord injuries.

Victims injured by a boating accident could get compensation for their medical expenses as well as lost earnings or work while they recuperate. They also have the right to recover cost of long-term treatment in the event that their injuries are irreparable. Unfortunately, estimating the value of a personal injury claim is not an easy task. Insurance firms often attempt to make a deal that is less than what victims have a right to. An experienced attorney can help to get the highest settlement that is possible.

A New York City boating accident lawyer will conduct a thorough investigation into the incident in order to gather all evidence relevant. This includes the gathering of crucial documents such as police reports and witness statements, boat maintenance records, chemical tests, and photos of the scene of the accident and the damage to property. Medical records can provide other crucial information, for example, detailed reports on the injuries, expenses and any future costs. The lawyer may then bargain with the party at fault or the insurance company to negotiate an equitable settlement.

Maritime Workers' Compensation

Workers on workboats and other vessels, including supply ships, are subject to hazardous conditions throughout their work. They are at risk of getting injured not just from falling equipment or cargo, but also by accidents on boats caused by the negligence or recklessness of other parties aboard the vessel.

Seamen are entitled to certain rights under the Jones Act and other federal laws designed to safeguard them from employer negligence. If they suffer injuries due to such incidents, they're entitled to full damages under the Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act (LHWCA). The damages may include medical expenses, lost wages, cost of living during recovery along with pain and suffering as well as other benefits in the form of money.

Most often, seamen injured on a supply ship tugboat, dredger barge, oil tanker, or cruise or sightseeing vessel require more than workers' compensation to compensate their injuries. A skilled New York boat accident lawyer can help identify other third-party claims where a seaman might be entitled to compensation, including allegations of a lack of seaworthiness or the employer's failure to maintain the safety of the vessel.

Your attorney will gather important documents and evidence regarding your claim, including medical records and insurance policy information and police reports, among others. They will then engage in settlement negotiations with the lawyer for the defendant and the insurance company on your behalf. If a fair settlement cannot be reached then they will prepare for trial to present a strong case in court on behalf of you.

Product Defects

While the majority of riviera beach boat accident lawyer crashes occur due to reckless or negligent behavior on the part of the boat operator However, there are many instances where a crash was actually the result of defective equipment. In these instances, the victims could sue the firm responsible for the product to seek compensation. In these instances, an Reston, VA product defect lawyer can assist.

Defective equipment and boats could be covered by claims based on negligence or strict liability law. A warranty claim could be due to a breach of implied or express warranties made by law, like the New Jersey used car lemon laws or the guarantees of quality and fit and finish under the Uniform Commercial Code.

Latent defects are typically covered by insurance policies as well. Although some people think a problem is clear or obvious, courts often require an expert witness from a surveyor, or any other qualified professional to determine if the mechanical breakdown or another damage resulted from a hidden condition.

Some defects are discovered after a boat is sold. These are usually 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 is the case of a boat owner who forgets to empty water out of the engine, and the water freezes during winter and causes damage to the engine.

Insurance

In a state such as New York with easy access to the Atlantic Ocean and numerous lakes boats and other water recreational activities are commonplace for residents. However, like all sports, they also carry certain risks and liabilities that can have a negative impact on the lives of participants.

Injured individuals can file a personal injury claim or wrongful death suit to seek compensation. Damages include medical expenses, loss of income, property loss, 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 can be difficult to work with in a boating case particularly when their primary goal is to pay as little as possible. Make sure you are level playing field by hiring a NYC lawyer for boating injuries who will work with insurance companies to ensure all parties involved are accountable for their actions.

An experienced attorney will review all evidence available, including police reports and medical records. They will also review witness testimony. They will then enter into discussions with both the at-fault person and their insurance company to negotiate an acceptable settlement. If they are not able to reach an agreement on a settlement, Firms our attorneys will prepare the case for trial. We are experienced in the presentation of evidence to support your claim and winning the maximum financial award.