The waterways in Texas are great areas for recreation to unwind during weekends and holidays. Although most Texans visit our beautiful lakes just for recreational purposes, some engage in sporting activities. Lakes Pumpkin, Figure Four, Hermann Hospital, Brazos River Basin, among others, offer various activities, including fishing, transportation, swimming, and boating.
Although boating accidents are not as popular as vehicular crashes, they are difficult to ignore. Based on the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department statistics, over 600,000 boats are registered each year, with over 150 of them being involved in an accident. Like most auto wrecks, these accidents are widely caused by negligence and can cause far-reaching consequences to the injured persons and their loved ones. If you were injured under similar circumstances, the Fort Bend County boat accident lawyers at our firm understand the implications you are facing. Our experienced lawyers are eager to help you get the justice you deserve.
Common Causes of Boat Accidents in Fort Bend County
Like most auto wrecks reported in Texas, most boat accidents in Fort Bend County are attributed to negligence. The United States Coast Guard points out human error as a prevalent cause of these accidents. Since there are many parties involved in boating, it could be difficult establishing an act of recklessness. That’s why it’s essential to speak with a qualified Fort Bend County boat accident lawyer before pursuing any legal action.
Some of the most common causes of boat accidents in Fort Bend County are:
Operator Negligence
Boat operators are required to observe the same duty of care as drivers. This means that their actions should not pose dangers to the safety of their passengers and other watercraft. But unfortunately, not all of them adhere to state and federal maritime rules. Negligence on the part of boat operators could be in the form of:
- Operating a boat while under the influence of alcohol
- Speeding
- Improper lookout
- Lack of proper training
All these behaviors could form the basis of a boat accident lawsuit in Fort Bend County.
Improper Boat Maintenance
Regular maintenance of watercraft is essential in guaranteeing boat safety. As with other vehicles, the boat owner or boating company should carry routine repairs and maintenance checks. The responsibility of maintenance often falls on these two parties. If our accident reconstruction experts link the accident to improper maintenance, we may sue them for negligence.
Defective Boat Parts & Poor Designs
Boat operators and owners are not always to blame for boating accidents because some of these vessels come with either defective parts or poor designs that make them susceptible to accidents. In these scenarios, a boat accident lawsuit may be brought forward against the manufacturer or distributor of the faulty parts. Most companies have experienced defense attorneys ready to counter any product liability claims against them. For this reason, you should retain an aggressive boat accident attorney in Fort Bend County to level the playing field and ensure your rights are protected.
For a free legal consultation with a boating accident lawyer serving Fort Bend County, call (832) 449-8230
Types of Watercraft Accidents We Handle
Different types of boat accidents occur on Texas waterways. Most of them involve drowning, but that’s just a tip of an iceberg in the ocean. We have represented clients who suffered serious harm due to:
- Collision with fixed objects
- Collision with other vessels
- Falls overboard
- Capsizing
- Flooding
These accidents tend to be catastrophic, especially when they involve alcohol intoxication, speeding, or improper lookout. If the accident wasn’t your fault, a knowledgeable boat wreck lawyer should be the best ally in your pursuit of justice.
Fort Bend County Boating Accident Lawyer Near Me (832) 449-8230
Establishing Liability in Boating Accidents
When a boat accident occurs, the obvious question that comes to mind is about liability. Who is to blame? The answers you need are found in the specific circumstances around your case. And since liability is not always straightforward, you may need an accident reconstruction expert to review the facts of your case. The most common parties to blame in boating accidents are:
- Boat owners for negligent operator hiring
- Boating companies for improper vessel maintenance
- Boat operator for negligent driving
- Passengers for negligent behaviors
- Boat manufacturers for defective parts and poor designs
Click to contact our Personal Injury Lawyers in Fort Bend County today
Contact a Fort Bend County Boat Accident Attorney Today
Determining fault in an accident can be challenging, more so when you have been severely injured. You don’t have to give up on your rights because you lack time to focus on your case. Retain a dedicated Fort Bend County boat accident lawyer from Lone Star Injury Attorneys today. We are eager to help you get started on your road to physical and financial recovery.
Call or text (832) 449-8230 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form