boat accident lawsuits Accident Attorneys

If you've been injured in an accident on the water, and it was not your fault, you could be entitled to a substantial settlement. These costs could include physical therapy, medical bills and income loss due to an inability to work.

Certain victims may also be eligible for punitive damages if the defendant's actions were egregious or reckless. These kinds of awards are crafted to punish the defendant and deter similar misconduct in the future.

Personal Injury

While boating accidents may cause serious injuries, many of them are preventable. Inexperienced and untrained boaters are common causes of boat accident attorneys accidents along with other reckless choices, such as operating under the influence of alcohol, bringing too many passengers, or reckless behavior. The severity of injuries ranges from minor bruises to paralysis due to the brain or spinal cord.

Victims of boating accidents are entitled to compensation for their medical bills and loss of income or work while they recover from injuries. If their injuries last for a long time they may also be able to recover expenses for long-term care. Unfortunately, estimating the value of an injury claim is not an easy task. Insurance firms often attempt to accept less than the victims have a right to. A knowledgeable attorney can assist you in negotiating for the highest possible settlement.

A New York City boating accident lawyer will conduct a thorough investigation into the accident to collect all relevant evidence. This includes obtaining important documents, like police reports and witness statements along with logs of vessel maintenance as well as chemical tests and photos of the accident scene and property damage. Medical records can also provide essential information, such as detailed reports on the injuries, expenses and future costs. The lawyer may then negotiate a fair settlement with the person at fault or insurance company.

Maritime Workers' Compensation

Maritime workers working on workboats as well as other vessels, like supply ships, are exposed to dangerous conditions during their employment. In addition to being injured by falling equipment or cargo and equipment, they also are at risk of being involved in boat accidents caused by negligence or reckless conduct by other crew members on the vessel.

The Jones Act and other federal statutes protect seamen from negligence by employers. They have the right to full compensation under the Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act. These damages can include medical expenses as well as lost income, the cost of living while recovering, pain and suffering as well as other benefits in the form of money.

Many times, injured seamen on a supply vessel tugboats, dredgers and tugboats barges, oil tanks, cruise or sightseeing vessels need more than workers' compensation to compensate for their losses. A skilled New York boat accident lawyer will be able to identify any other third-party claims for which a seaman might be entitled to compensation, such as allegations of unseaworthiness and the employer's failure to maintain the safety of the vessel.

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

Product Defects

Many boat accidents result from defective equipment. However, the majority of boat accidents result from the reckless or negligent actions of the boat's owner. In those instances, victims are able to seek compensation from the manufacturer of the defective product in a lawsuit. A Reston, VA, product defect lawyer can assist in these instances.

Defective boats and equipment may be covered by claims based on negligence, strict liability or warranty law. A warranty claim may be caused by a breach of implied or express warranties that are created by law, for example the New Jersey used car lemon laws or the guarantees of quality and fit and finish under the Uniform Commercial Code.

Insurance policies usually cover latent defects as well. While some consumers may suggest that a problem is clear or obvious, courts typically require expert testimony from a surveyor, or any other expert to determine if an issue with a mechanical component or any other damage was caused by a hidden condition.

There are some defects that are discovered after a boat is sold. These are generally deemed manufacturing defects, and the manufacturer is responsible for the defects. Others are discovered after a vessel is in operation and may be the fault of the owner. An example of this is when a boat owner fails to drain the water from the engine, and firms that water freezes during winter, causing damage to the motor.

Insurance

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

Individuals who have been injured can file a personal injuries claim or wrongful death lawsuit to seek compensation. Damages may include medical costs, loss of income, property losses along with pain and suffering, diminished quality of life permanent disability, disfigurement, and other expenses. Victims may also demand punitive damages in the event of reckless or gross negligence behaviour by the at-fault party.

Insurance companies aren't always easy to work with in a boating dispute particularly when their main goal is to settle the least amount possible. Employ a NYC lawyer for a boating accident who will work closely with insurers to hold all parties responsible for their actions.

An experienced attorney will go over all evidence available including police reports and medical records. They will also examine witness testimony. Then, they'll engage in discussions with the party at fault and their insurance company to negotiate an equitable settlement. If they cannot agree on a settlement then our lawyers will prepare for trial. We are skilled at the presentation of evidence in support of your claim and securing the maximum amount of financial compensation.