Dearborn Boating Accident Attorney
Hurt in a Boat Crash?Michigan possesses lots of popular bodies of water that are perfect for summertime boating. With such great access to the water, it is not unusual that thousands of residents hit the water each year in addition to countless tourists and visitors who come for a summer break. Most people enjoy their time on the water safely and then go back to their daily lives. Unfortunately for some, a boating trip will become tragic and result in an accident. If you or a loved one has been involved in a boating accident, contact the Dearborn Boating Accident Attorney at Marko Law today to receive the compensation you are entitled to.Common Causes of Boating AccidentsThe majority of boating accidents had one thing in common. Usually, at least one driver was driving in a hazardous or reckless way, leading to a collision with another boat or a fixed object. In addition, more than half of the fatal accidents involve a boater under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.A lot of Michigan boating accidents happen as a result of negligence on the part of the driver, whether that negligence is caused by intoxication, distraction, or lack of experience. Overwhelmingly, most boating accidents involve operators with significant on-water experience but little or no formal training. This combination can lead to an overconfident driver that may ignore some important safety procedures.Boating while intoxicatedIn many aspects, boating accidents can mimic car accidents with a lot of the same factors in each causing accidents in the other. As previously mentioned, operating under the influence is extremely common. Too often, drinking alcohol and boating go together in Michigan. Friends and family get together for a fun day on the water, but boating under the influence is illegal and dangerous. Boaters in Michigan face the same criteria as drivers when it involves intoxication by any kind of substance that impairs a driver's ability to operate a boat. Yet usually, those who would never drink and drive somehow decide to boat and drive. Intoxication is a factor in too many boating casualties in Michigan, in some years over 50%.Distracted boatingAnother common cause of boating accidents is inattentiveness by an operator. Frequently this results in a collision between two boats, or in one watercraft striking an object or an individual in the water.SpeedingEvery year accidents happen where a speeding boater fails to see a swimmer in the water. As a result, the boat strikes or runs over the swimmer, sometimes with tragic consequences. In other accidents, a big boat operating at a high speed may fail to notice a smaller boat concealed by waves until it is too late and a crash occurs.Negligent boat maintenanceLike other vehicles, boats are subject to wear and need maintenance to keep them in good working condition. This may require the installation of new parts or repair of broken parts at intervals in the life of the boat. Neglecting to properly maintain a watercraft can lead to dangerous conditions and even an accident. This might result in injuries to those aboard or to others in the area.Some adequately maintained boats might otherwise be unsafe if they are subject to a flaw or defect in design. This issue can make normal use of the boat precarious to a novel or an experienced boater.Legal Options After a Boating AccidentMany of those who sustain injury in a boating accident are unaware that they might be able to make a financial recovery for their damages. The type of claim available and whether a recovery is possible varies. It depends on the kind of accident, the injuries to the victim, and whether somebody was negligent or reckless in causing the injury. As each situation is unique, it is always a good idea to speak with a personal injury lawyer after an accident to understand your legal rights.As an accident victim, you may be able to make a claim against the at-fault boater, the boat owner, or even the marina and/or rental company in some circumstances. This claim can provide you with compensation for your:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages you were not able to earn
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of normal life
- Any other actual damages as a result of the accident
If your loved one dies in a boating accident, you might receive compensation for your losses. This could include the time you will no longer be able to spend in your loved one's company and future loss of income.In some cases, an at-fault boater might not be known or may not be a feasible source of financial recovery. This does not always prevent a victim from receiving compensation in a lot of accidents. An attorney can help you know whether a different form of compensation may be available.Contact Us Today to Get a Free ConsultationIf you are ready to start your case or need more information about boat accident lawyers in Dearborn, Michigan, contact Marko Law Firm today. Let us represent you as you seek justice and compensation for your pain and damages. Call (313) 777-7LAW today to get a free consultation or visit our website: MarkoLaw.com to get more information.
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