Boat accidents can happen in various situations which may include commercial, cruise line vessels, and smaller recreational watercraft. By abiding by safety guidelines, boat operators can prevent accidents. However, sometimes accidents occur due to negligence, poor boat maintenance, or other issues. If you or someone you know has been injured or died because of a boat accident, you must report the incident immediately and consider speaking with an attorney about your options.
Commercial Boat Accidents
Commercial boat accidents refer to incidents that occur on cargo ships, shipping vessels, oil rigs, or other larger watercraft structures. Accidents on commercial ships can lead to severe injury or even fatalities for dock members, crew workers, or others who were on the boat at the time. Because these hefty boats tend to travel across many international waters, accidents may be governed by different entities and laws.
Cruise Line Accidents
When people sign up for a cruise, they anticipate it being a relaxing and fun time for everyone involved. Sadly, just as if they were on any other type of boat, accidents can happen on cruise ships too. Accidents can include things like boat collisions, grounding (the bottom of the ship hitting sea floor), onboard illness, inadequate security, food poisoning, slip and falls, and more.
In order to seek damages for injuries sustained on a cruise ship, you must first look over your ticket information and see if there are any policies that apply. Your attorney can help investigate as to whether safety standards or negligence had occurred on behalf of cruise ship staff, operators, or owners.
Recreational Boat Accidents
Many people hop onto smaller recreational boats and enjoy them during the warmer months. A leading contributor of accidents is due to the operators being under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Passengers who were only moments before having a great time can become victims in the event of a crash, thrown overboard, or slammed against the inside of the boat itself. Boat owners and operators are strongly encouraged to receive boating safety instructions and complete classes so they can keep themselves and passengers safe.
What should I do if I was seriously hurt in a boat accident?
Whether you were on a commercial boat, cruise line, or small recreational boat, it is important to get medical attention and legal support if you were seriously hurt in an accident. Your attorney can find out who is most likely responsible for the accident happening, and can offer representation as you file a civil lawsuit against the offending party. You may be entitled to compensation for loss of wages, loss of quality of life, emergency transportation, hospitalization bills, diagnostics, prescription medication, psychological therapy, rehabilitation, physical therapy, and more.
What information does my attorney need during a consultation?
During your initial consultation, information to provide to your attorney are things like copies of medical documentation, photo or video evidence, witness contacts, statements from your employer about missed work, and anything else that can be used as evidence in support of your case.
Contact a Lawyer
A lawyer, like a personal injury lawyer can help you figure out if you have a viable case. Don’t wait to contact a law firm, though, because there are often a statute of limitations in place for personal injury suits.