Boating is a fulfilling recreational activity enjoyed by many in Galveston and throughout the United States. It provides an opportunity for boat owners to embrace and experience the natural ambiance freely offered by nature. However, being involved in a boating accident can be a frightening and traumatizing experience. In addition to physical injuries, survivors often suffer from Post Traumatic Disorders that significantly impact their quality of life, affecting their productivity, careers, and social interactions.
Fortunately, boat accident survivors have the option to seek compensation by filing a claim against the negligent party. Recovering monetary damages can help address the new needs arising from the accident, such as medical bills. If you or your loved one has recently been injured in a boating accident, it is important to promptly consult with our Galveston boat accident lawyer.
Given the various state, federal, and international rules governing the boating industry, filing a compensation claim on your own can be difficult. The complex nature of these systems requires the expertise of a skilled personal injury attorney, as the average person may lack the necessary legal knowledge to navigate them effectively. At Lone Star Injury Attorneys, our lawyers can provide you with a detailed one-on-one consultation to advise you on the best legal approach for seeking maximum monetary compensation.
Determining the Cause of Your Boating Accident is crucial
Before proceeding with your boat accident case, it is essential to understand how the accident occurred. This understanding not only helps establish fault but also allows you to gather the necessary evidence and information to build a strong case from the beginning. Boat accidents can happen under various circumstances, including bad weather conditions, carelessness, speeding, and intoxication.
Bad Weather Conditions
Boating in extreme weather conditions significantly increases the risk of accidents. Heavy storms, rain, fog, mist, and high winds account for over 50% of boat accidents in the U.S. To ensure passenger safety, boat operators are required to stay updated with weather forecasts and create a detailed float plan outlining the specifics of their boating activities. Operating a boat in adverse weather conditions can be extremely hazardous.
Careless and Negligent Operation of Boats
Similar to drivers, boat operators have a legal duty to conduct themselves responsibly to prevent accidents. Unfortunately, not all boat captains adhere to these rules. It is common to encounter boat operators who splash other boats, violate low wake regulations, fail to yield to other boats, or fail to maintain a safe distance from other water vessels.
Speeding
Maintaining safe and designated speed limits is crucial for all watercraft. Excessive speeding makes it difficult for boat operators to safely control their vessels and react to emergencies, such as collisions with other vessels.
Intoxication with Alcohol
Boat operators are subject to the same rules as drivers when it comes to alcohol consumption. Operating a watercraft with a Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) level above the legal limit of 0.08% can lead to legal action if an accident occurs. Blood, breath, and urine tests are often used to determine the level of intoxication.
Other causes of boat accidents include:
- Carelessness of boat passengers
- Boat defects
- Involvement with other watercraft
- Insufficient training of boat operators
Many of these causes are preventable. If your boating accident was caused by any of these factors, it is important to speak with our Galveston lawyer as soon as possible to file a compensation claim before it is too late.
For a free legal consultation with a boating accident lawyer serving Galveston, call (832) 449-8230
Injuries Associated with Watercraft Collisions in Galveston
Injuries resulting from a boat accident can range from minor to severe, depending on the circumstances of the accident. Drowning is a common risk associated with boat accidents, particularly when passengers are not wearing life vests. Drowning can lead to brain damage due to oxygen deprivation and, in the worst-case scenario, loss of life. According to Statista, boating accidents resulted in 658 deaths in 2021 while 2,641 people were injured.
Other injuries that may occur in a boat accident include:
- Broken bones
- Head injuries
- Spine injuries
- Trauma to the head
- Whiplash and neck injuries
- Strains and sprains
- Internal organ damage
- Traumatic brain injuries
Our committed attorneys can assess your injuries and determine the value of your watercraft accident claim.
Galveston Boating Accident Lawyer Near Me (832) 449-8230
Contact a Galveston Boat Accident Attorney Today
If you have suffered serious injuries in a boat accident, our Galveston boat accident lawyer can assist you in filing a lawsuit to seek compensation from the party responsible for the accident. Our offices are available for a free case evaluation. To schedule an appointment, please call us or reach out to us online without delay.
Call or text (832) 449-8230 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form