Each year thousands of people are injured or die in boating accidents that could have been prevented. In 2009, 736 people died in boating accidents and 4,084 people were involved in accidents with boats, according to statistics compiled by the U.S. Coast Guard. Boating accidents have become more frequent due to the increase use of commercial and recreational boats.
Many boating accidents are the result of external factors, such as alcohol. The majority of injured people were aged 20-29, which indicates alcohol may have played a significant role in those accidents. As with any form of transportation, there is the possibility of an accident, but the additional risks, including drowning, lack of seat belts and slow stopping time, make the safe and careful operation of boats and jet skis even more important. If a boating accident resulting in personal injury or death was caused by the negligent or irresponsible behavior of a person or entity, then that party must be held responsible. Contact our experienced New York and New Jersey personal injury law offices today to learn more.
Boat Accident Injuries
Injuries from boating accidents can be serious, including brain and spinal cord injuries, paralysis and even death. Many victims of boating accidents drown, and most of those people were not wearing life jackets. If you were injured or if you lost a loved one in an accident involving a boat or jet ski, you may be able to file a lawsuit to receive compensation for your hardship.
Accident Prevention
- Always wear a life jacket.
- Do not drink alcohol while operating or riding on a boat.
- Maintain proper distress-alert tools (ie: flares) and position-indicating technologies (GPS) to help rescuers find you.
- Take note of months/days/times that bodies of water are most crowded, as more traffic increases the likelihood of accident.
- Ensure the boat’s driver is experienced with handling that specific boat.
Causes of Boat Accidents
The U.S. Coast Guard cites four primary causes of boat accidents:
Vessel Operator Issue
Alcohol/Drug Use- Excessive Speed
- Failure to Ventilate
- Improper Lookout
- Inadequate On-board Navigation Lights
- Operator Inattention
- Operator Inexperience
- Restricted Vision
- Rules of the Road Infraction
- Sharp Turn
- Starting in Gear
- Other
Improper Loading of Passengers or Gear
- Improper Anchoring
- Improper Loading/Weight Distribution
- Overloading
- People on Gunwale, Bow or Transom
- Other
Failure of Boat or Boat Equipment
- Equipment Failure
- Hull Failure
- Machinery Failure
- Other
Environment Hazards
- Congested Waters
- Dam/Lock
- Force of Wave/Wake
- Hazardous Waters
- Missing or Inadequate Navigation Aids
- Weather
- Other
Experienced New York and New Jersey Boat Accident Attorneys
Boating accidents are different than automobile accidents, and victims of boating accidents need representation from an attorney who knows the laws and regulations governing the waterways. The team at The Oshman Firm has the experience and knowledge to build a powerful case for your boating accident claim to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
Resources for Immediate Legal Action
The statute of limitations on boating accident injuries in New York is three years, meaning you have only three years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit against the responsible party. If an accident resulted in the death of your loved one, you must bring about a claim within two years of the incident. Hiring the law firm of The Oshman Firm means you will have an attorney researching your case, filing a claim and advocating on your behalf, while you and your family take time to recover from your loss or injury. The attorneys of The Oshman Firm have the resources to thoroughly investigate all aspects of a boating accident and collect evidence immediately, before it disappears or is tampered with.
If you or someone you know has suffered injury or if you have lost a loved one in a boating accident, you deserve compensation. You need to hire an expert lawyer from a law firm with a stellar reputation for commitment to client satisfaction and maximum compensation. Contact the law offices of The Oshman Firm today for a FREE consultation to discuss your legal rights and options.