Boat Accident Attorneys

If you've been injured as a result of an accident with a boat which was not your fault, you could be entitled to a substantial amount of compensation. These costs may include physical therapy, medical bills and income loss because of inability to work.

Certain victims may also be eligible for punitive damages in the event that the defendant's actions were egregious or reckless. These types of awards are designed to penalize the defendant and discourage similar behavior in the future.

Personal Injury

Although boating accidents can cause serious injuries, a lot of them can be avoided. Boat accidents are often caused by inexperienced and untrained boaters, and other reckless decisions like driving under the influence of alcohol, carrying too many people, and reckless behavior. The severity of the injuries vary from minor bruising to paralysis due to spinal cord or firms brain injury.

Victims of injuries sustained by a boating accident could be compensated for medical bills and lost income or work while they recover. They can also recover the costs of long-term care if their injuries are permanent. Unfortunately the process of estimating the value of an injury claim is not an easy task, and insurance firms often attempt to offer less than what victims are entitled to. A knowledgeable attorney can assist you in negotiating for the highest amount of compensation possible.

A New York City boating accident lawyer will conduct a thorough investigation into the incident in order to collect all relevant evidence. This includes obtaining important documents, like witness statements and police reports, vessel maintenance logs chemical tests, photographs of the scene of an accident and property damage. Other crucial information can be obtained from medical records including detailed reports of the injuries suffered, the expenses incurred, as well as estimated future costs. The lawyer may then bargain with the party at fault or the insurance company to negotiate a fair settlement.

Maritime Workers' Compensation

Maritime workers on supply ships, workboats and other vessels are typically exposed to hazardous conditions in the course of their employment. In addition to being injured by falling equipment or cargo in the course of their work, they are also at risk of being involved in boat accidents caused by negligent or reckless conduct by other crew members on the vessel.

Seamen have certain rights under the Jones Act and other federal laws that protect them from the negligence of employers. They have the right to full compensation under the Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act. These damages can be a result of medical expenses and lost wages, as well as the cost of living during the recovery process in the event of pain and suffering as well as other benefits in the form of money.

A lot of times, injured seamen on a supply vessel tugboats, dredgers, barges, oil tanks, cruise or sightseeing boats need more than workers' compensation to compensate for their losses. A New York boat accident attorney will be able to identify third-party claims a seaman may be eligible for claims, for instance, allegations of unseaworthiness or the employer's inability to keep an appropriate vessel.

Your lawyer will gather important documents and evidence that relate to your claim. These include medical records, information about insurance policies, police reports and much more. They will then negotiate a settlement with the attorney representing the defendant as well as an the insurance company on your behalf. If a fair agreement cannot be reached then they will prepare for trial so that they can present a strong case in the court on your behalf.

Product Defects

Many boat accidents result from defective equipment. While the majority of boat accident law firm accidents are caused by the reckless or negligent behavior of the boat operator. In those instances, victims can seek compensation from the company that produced the defective product by filing a lawsuit. In these cases, an Reston, VA product defect lawyer can help.

Defective boats and equipment could be covered by claims that are based on negligence, strict liability or warranty law. Warranty claims can be based on a breach of express or implied warranties created 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 often covered by insurance policies, too. Although some consumers may claim that the issue is evident or obvious, courts often require expert testimony from an engineer or other expert to determine if the mechanical breakdown or damage was caused due to a hidden condition.

Some defects are found after a boat has been 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. An example of this is when a boater forgets to drain the water out of the engine, and the water freezes in the winter, causing damage to the motor.

Insurance

Boating and other water sports are very popular in New York, a state with easy access to Atlantic Ocean and many lakes. As with all recreational activities there are risks and liabilities that are involved.

Injured individuals are able to file a personal injury claim or wrongful death suit to seek compensation. Damages include medical expenses, firms loss of income, property loss along with pain and suffering, diminished quality of life, permanent disability, disfigurement and other expenses. In the event of gross negligence, victims may also pursue punitive damages.

Insurance companies aren't always easy to work with in a case involving boats especially when their primary goal is to pay the least amount possible. Hire a NYC boating accident attorney who will work closely with insurance companies to hold them 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. They will then engage in negotiations with both the at fault person and their insurance company to reach an equitable settlement. If they are unable come to an agreement the attorneys of our firm will prepare for trial. We are adept at providing evidence to support your claim and obtaining the maximum financial award.