Flint Boating Accident Lawyer
Injured in a Boat Crash?
Michigan has lots of popular bodies of water that are ideal for summertime boating. With such great access to the water, it is not unusual that thousands of residents hit the water every year in addition to countless tourists and visitors who come for a summer break. The majority of people enjoy their time on the water safely and then return to their everyday lives. Sadly for some, a boating trip will become tragic and lead to an accident. If you or a loved one has been involved in a boating accident, contact the Flint Boating Accident Lawyers at Marko Law today to get the compensation you deserve.
Common Causes of Boating Accidents
Most boating accidents had one thing in common. Generally, at least one operator was driving in a dangerous or reckless way, causing a collision with another boat or a fixed object. Additionally, more than half of the deadly accidents involve a boater under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs. A lot of Michigan boating accidents occur as a result of negligence on the part of the driver, whether that negligence is caused by intoxication, distraction, or inexperience. Overwhelmingly, most boating accidents involve operators with significant on-water experience but little or no formal training. This combo can result in a cocky operator who may disregard some important safety procedures.
Boating while intoxicated
In many aspects, boating accidents can mirror car accidents with a lot of the same factors in each causing collisions in the other. As previously mentioned, operating under the influence is very common. Too often, drinking alcohol and boating go hand-in-hand in Michigan. Friends and family get together for a fun day on the water, but boating under the influence is illegal and unsafe. Boaters in Michigan face the same criteria as drivers when it comes to intoxication by any substance that hinders a driver's ability to operate a watercraft. Yet typically, those that 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 boating
Another common reason for boating accidents is inattentiveness by an operator. Frequently this causes a collision between two watercrafts, or in one boat striking an object or a person in the water.
Speeding
Each year accidents occur 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 large boat operating at a high speed might fail to see a smaller boat hidden by waves until it is too late and a crash happens.
Negligent boat maintenance
Like other vehicles, boats are subject to wear and need maintenance to keep them in good working condition. This might require the installment of new parts or repair of broken parts at periods in the life of the boat. Failing to adequately maintain a watercraft can result in a hazardous condition and even an accident. This may lead to injuries to those aboard or to others in the area.Some properly maintained boats may otherwise be dangerous if they are subject to a flaw or defect in design. This problem can make regular use of the boat precarious to a novel or a seasoned boater.
Legal Options After a Boating Accident
A lot of those that suffer injury in a boating accident are not aware that they may be able to make a financial recovery for their damages. The kind of claim available and whether a recovery is possible differs. It depends on the type of accident, the injuries to the victim, and whether somebody was negligent or reckless in causing the injury. As each incident is different, it is always a good idea to speak with a personal injury lawyer after an accident to learn about your legal rights. As an accident victim, you may be able to make a claim against the at-fault boater, the boat owner, and even the marina and/or rental company in some cases. This claim can provide you with compensation for your:
- Medical bills
- Lost wages you were not able to earn
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of normal life
- Any other actual damages because of the crash
If your family member dies in a boating accident, you may 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 may not be known or might not be a sensible source of financial recovery. This does not always stop a victim from obtaining compensation in a lot of accidents. A lawyer can help you realize whether a different form of compensation might be available.
Contact Us Today to Get a Free Consultation
If you are ready to start your case or need more information about a Boat Accident Lawyer in Flint, 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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