Boating is a favorite pastime in New York, especially in the warmer months. Boating provides pleasure, adventure, and scenic views, yet maritime mishaps can have devastating consequences. Accidents on the water often result in devastating property damage, severe injuries, and even death. If you or a loved one has been injured in a boat accident, it’s crucial to understand your legal rights and options. Please continue reading as we explore the most common types of boating accidents, who can be held liable for your damages, and the importance of consulting with our seasoned Queens Personal Injury Attorneys for guidance.
What Are the Most Common Types of Boating Accidents?
Numerous factors contribute to boat accidents occurring in New York’s waterways. Understanding the primary causes and types of boat accidents that can occur is essential to minimize related damage. Below are some different types of boat accidents:
- Striking another vessel
- Striking a fixed object
- Capiszing
- Passengers falling overboard (drowning)
- Flooding, swamping, or sinking
- Fires or explosions
- Grounding
The most prominent factors causing or contributing to these accidents include inexperienced operators, excessive speeding, operating a vessel while intoxicated, inclement weather, violations of the rules of the water, equipment failure, and more.
Can I Sue After a Boat Accident in New York?
If the accident was caused by another party’s negligence or reckless behavior, you can sue the at-fault individual for your damages. For a successful case, you must demonstrate that the responsible party owed you a duty of care, breached that duty through their actions or inaction, and that this breach directly caused your injuries. You can seek compensation for your economic and non-economic damages. This includes your medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and emotional distress. In some cases, you can even be awarded punitive damages if the accident was due to reckless or intentional misconduct.
While you may assume that the individual operating the boat is the only party liable for your accident, other parties can also be held responsible, including:
- The boat owner
- The boat manufacturer
- The boat mechanics
- The boat rental company
- Crew members
- Passengers whose actions contributed to the accident
Determining liability after a boat accident can be a complex process. Proving fault requires gathering substantial evidence, such as medical records, witness statements, and photographs.
Following a boating accident in New York, it’s in your best interest to consult with an experienced attorney from The Law Offices of George Poulos, who can help you understand your rights and options. Our legal team can help investigate the circumstances of the accident, gather evidence, and guide you through the complexities of the legal process. Connect with our firm today to discuss your case.