boat accident attorney Accident Attorneys

If you were injured in an accident on the water that was not your fault, you may be entitled to a substantial amount of compensation. These expenses can include physical therapy, medical bills and income loss due to the inability to work.

Certain victims could also be eligible for punitive damages if defendant's actions were egregious or reckless. These types of awards are designed to punish the defendant and deter similar misconduct in the future.

Personal Injury

Boating accidents can result in serious injuries, but a majority are avoidable. Boat accidents are usually caused by untrained and inexperienced boaters, in addition to other reckless actions like driving under the effects of alcohol, carrying many passengers, and reckless behavior. The injuries can range from minor bruises to paralysis resulting from the brain or spinal cord.

The victims of a boating accident are entitled to compensation for medical bills and loss of earnings or work while recovering from their injuries. They also have the right to recover costs of long-term medical care when their injuries are permanent. Unfortunately it is difficult to estimate the value of an injury claim isn't an easy task. Insurance companies often try to settle for less than victims need to receive. A skilled attorney can assist you in negotiating for the highest possible settlement.

A New York City boating accident lawyer will conduct an extensive investigation into the incident in order to collect all relevant evidence. This includes gathering important documents, including witness statements and police reports and logs of maintenance on the vessel, chemical tests and photographs of the accident scene and the property damage. Medical records can provide essential information, such as detailed reports of the injuries, expenses and the cost of future expenses. The lawyer will then negotiate with the at-fault party and/or the insurance company for a fair settlement.

Maritime Workers' Compensation

Workers on supply ships, workboats and other vessels are typically exposed to hazardous conditions during the course of working. In addition to being injured by falling cargo or equipment, they are also at risk of being involved in boat accidents caused by negligent or reckless actions by other crew members on the vessel.

The Jones Act and other federal statutes protect seamen from negligence by employers. If they are injured in these types of incidents, they are entitled to full compensation under the Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act (LHWCA). These damages can be a result of medical expenses, lost wages, cost of living during recuperation as well as pain and suffering and other financial benefits.

A lot of times, injured seamen on a supply vessel tugboats, dredgers, barges, oil tanks cruise or sightseeing boats require more than workers' compensation in order to cover their losses. A New York boat accident attorney will be able to identify third-party claims an individual seaman may be eligible for, such as allegations of unreliability or the employer's failure maintain an appropriate vessel.

Your lawyer will collect crucial documents and evidence in connection with your claim. These include medical records, information regarding insurance policies, police reports, and more. They will then negotiate an agreement with the attorney representing the defendant as well as an the insurance company on your behalf. If there is no fair settlement agreed upon, they will create an argument that is strong enough to be tried on your behalf.

Product Defects

While most boat accidents occur due to reckless or negligent behavior on the part of the boat owner However, there are many instances where a crash is actually the result of defective equipment. In these instances, the victims could sue the firm responsible for the product to seek compensation. In these cases, a Reston, VA product defect lawyer can assist.

Defective equipment and boats could be covered by claims that are based on negligence, strict liability or warranty law. Warranty claims can be based on a breach of implied or express warranties that are created by law, like the New Jersey used car lemon laws as well as the warranties of the merchantability and fit and finishing under the Uniform Commercial Code.

Latent defects are often covered by insurance policies, too. Although some consumers might claim that a problem is obvious or clear and obvious, courts typically require expert testimony from a surveyor or other qualified professional to determine whether the issue was caused by a mechanical malfunction or was caused by an unnoticed problem.

Certain defects are discovered after a boat is sold. These are generally deemed manufacturing defects, and the manufacturer is responsible for them. Some are discovered after the boat is operated and owned, and may be the fault of the owner. One instance is when the owner forgets the empty the engine of water and the water gets frozen and damages the motor in the winter.

Insurance

Boating and other water sports are very popular in New York, a state with easy access the Atlantic Ocean and many lakes. As with all recreational activities, there are risks and liabilities involved.

If boating accidents happen the injured can pursue a personal injury wrongful-death claim for compensation to cover their losses. Medical expenses, lost income, property losses, as well as pain and suffering are all considered damages. In cases of gross negligence, the victims can also seek punitive damages.

Insurance companies can be difficult to negotiate with in a boating case particularly when their primary goal is to settle as little as possible. Set the bar higher by hiring an NYC boating injury attorney who will work with insurers to ensure all parties involved are held accountable for their actions.

An experienced attorney will review all evidence available including police reports and medical records. They will also investigate witnesses' testimony. Then, they'll enter into discussions with the at-fault party and their insurance company to obtain a fair settlement. If they are unable to come to an agreement the attorneys of our firm will prepare for trial. We are experts in presenting evidence to support your claim and securing the highest amount of financial compensation.