Boat Accident Attorneys

If you've suffered injuries in an accident on the water which was not your fault, you may be entitled to a substantial amount of compensation. These expenses could include medical bills, physical therapy as well as loss of income due to an inability to work.

Some victims can be awarded punitive damages if the defendant's conduct was reckless and indecent. These awards are designed to punish the defendant for their blunders and also to deter further incidents.

Personal Injury

Accidents on the water can cause serious injuries, however many are avoidable. Inexperienced and untrained boaters are common causes of boat accidents, as are other reckless choices, such as driving under the influence, transporting too many passengers, or reckless behavior. The injuries can range from minor bruises to paralysis caused by brain or spinal cord injuries.

Victims injured in a boating incident can get compensation for their medical expenses and lost earnings or work while they recuperate. They can also recover the cost of long-term treatment for injuries that are permanent. Unfortunately the process of estimating the value of a personal injury claim is not an easy task, and insurance firms often attempt to make a deal that is less than what victims have a right to. 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 that all relevant evidence is collected. This includes the collection of crucial documents, such as police reports and witness statements, vessel maintenance documents, chemical tests and photos of the site of the accident as well as the damage to property. Other essential information may be gathered from medical records that include detailed accounts of the injuries sustained, expenses incurred, and estimated future costs. Lawyers can negotiate an acceptable settlement with the person who was at fault and/or insurance company.

Maritime Workers' Compensation

Workers on supply ships, workboats and other vessels are frequently exposed to hazardous conditions in the course of working. In addition to being injured by falling equipment or cargo, they are also at risk of boat accidents caused by negligent or reckless conduct of other parties on board the vessel.

The Jones Act and other federal statutes protect seamen from employer negligence. They have the right to full compensation under the Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act. The damages may include medical expenses loss of wages, cost of living during recovery in the event of pain and suffering and other monetary benefits.

A lot of times, injured seamen on a supply vessel tugboats, dredgers, barges, oil tanks cruise or sightseeing vessels need more than workers' compensation to pay for their losses. A New York boat accident attorney can identify third party claims that an individual seaman may be entitled to, such as allegations of unseaworthiness or the employer's failure maintain an appropriate vessel.

Your lawyer will gather important documents and evidence in connection with your claim. These include medical records, information on insurance policies, police reports, and much more. They will then negotiate an agreement with the defendant's attorney and the insurance company that you represent. If a fair and reasonable settlement cannot be reached then they will prepare for trial so that they can make a convincing argument in the court on behalf of you.

Product Defects

Many boat accidents result from defective equipment. Most boat accidents are caused by the negligent or reckless actions of the boat operator. In these instances, the victims could sue the firm that manufactured the defective product in order to recover compensation. In these cases, an Reston, VA product defect lawyer can assist.

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

Insurance policies usually cover latent defects too. While some consumers suggest a problem is clear or obvious, courts often require expert testimony from a surveyor or firms other qualified professional to determine whether an engine failure or other damage was caused by a concealed problem.

There are some defects that are discovered after a boat is sold. These are generally deemed manufacturing defects, and the manufacturer is accountable for the defects. Some are discovered after the boat was operated and owned and could be the fault of the owner. A good example is the case of a boat owner who forgets to empty water out of the engine, and that water freezes in winter months and causes damage to the motor.

Insurance

In a state like New York with easy access to the Atlantic Ocean and numerous lakes, boating and similar water recreational activities are commonplace for residents. Like any other recreational activity, there are risks and responsibilities involved.

When boating accidents happen and people are injured, they can file a personal injury or wrongful death claim to receive compensation to pay for their damages. The damages include medical expenses loss of income, property loss, pain and suffering, diminished quality of life, permanent disability, disfigurement and other expenses. In cases of gross negligence, the victims may also seek punitive damage.

Insurance companies aren't easy to work with in a case involving a highland park boat accident law firm particularly when their primary goal is to settle as little as they can. Level the playing field by hiring an NYC boating injury attorney who will work with insurance companies to ensure that all parties are accountable for their actions.

An experienced lawyer will examine all evidence available, including police reports, medical records and witness testimony. Then, they'll engage in negotiations with the person at fault and their insurance company to negotiate a fair settlement. If they are unable to reach a settlement, our attorneys will prepare for trial. We are skilled at presenting evidence to support your claim and obtaining the maximum financial award.