If you find yourself in the unfortunate situation of being involved in a boating accident The Joye Law Firm can help. We can assist you in filing an insurance claim for damages. Below, we’ll go over some common causes of boating accidents as well as common injuries. Also, you should know how to take legal action following an accident that involves boats. We hope that you find these articles helpful in addressing any questions you may have regarding boat accidents. If you’ve experienced a boating accident by yourself, contact us now.
Common causes of boating accidents
Boating accidents are most often caused by falls overboard or collisions with other vessels. This happens when a boat user or passenger is thrown overboard. Other causes of boating accidents are collisions with other boats as well as obstructions, powerful waves, and collisions with other recreational vessels. A boat may also be swept away if it is struck by the fixed object, such as bridges. Accidents that result from falls onboard could occur when a passenger or operator falls, and could be fatal to boaters.
Although boat collisions aren’t the most serious of accidents however, they can be dangerous. Since passengers aren’t always securely secured in their seats when they travel even minor collisions could cause serious head injuries or send them flying. Other causes of boating accidents include failure to properly inspect and maintain equipment, improper use, or lack of education. Many boating accidents can easily be avoided by making sure that the equipment is safe for use.
Mechanical failure and defective parts are also a cause of boating accidents. Weather conditions that are not ideal are another common reason for boating accidents. Rain and strong winds make the water unsuitable for navigation. Boaters who aren’t experienced are particularly vulnerable to accidents when weather conditions are bad. Statistics on accidents show that 6% of fatalities involving boats in Florida occur each year. These statistics demonstrate how important it is for boaters to keep their vessels safe despite the fact that the number of boating accidents has grown each year.
The most common cause of boating accidents in 2018 was the operator’s inattention. Operator inattention is the main reason for boating accidents in the year 2018. Although the vessel’s operation requires constant attention and careful maneuvering it can also be very dangerous if the driver is distracted. Inattention can result in a collision with a vehicle, or a slip and fall onboard. The US Coast Guard maintains statistics for recreational boating and it can be catastrophic. If you’re a new boat operator, remember that safety should be your top priority at all times.
Another reason for boating accidents is the lack of watchstands. Boat operators are responsible to watch out for other boaters. However it is essential that you look out for any objects in the water. Taking on a lookout is an excellent way to stay out of such dangerous situations. You must make sure that everyone on your crew are aware of the rules for boating, especially in the case of a novice operator. It is vital to know how to handle emergencies and ensure that everyone aboard is secure.
Symptoms of a boating accident
Many injuries can be triggered by an accident on the water that range from internal organ injuries and head injuries. In some cases the victim might drown. The boat can be flipped that could force passengers and crew members into the water. The boat owner may not have access to the medical attention they require immediately after an accident. It is important to know the signs and symptoms of a crash. If you or a loved one suffers from any of these injuries, contact emergency services immediately.
Contact the Coast Guard immediately if there is an emergency. After identifying the victims, you will have to determine their health as well as the health of the other passengers on the vessel. If anyone is injured give first aid to the person affected and contact 911. If the boat operator boat accident or passenger is unable to speak for themselves, try to contact emergency services using an onboard radio or cell phone. A doctor can provide assistance as soon as possible.
Distractions should be avoided while driving. Even hands-free conversations can distract you from the work of driving. Concentration is more important on the water than on land. Boats are zigzag over the water, at different speeds, and with different maneuverability. You may also be distracted by your mobile phone and changing the volume and talking to water skiers or snapping a photo. These distractions could lead to an accident, so it is important to be attentive and follow Rule 5 of the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea.
Boating accidents can lead to death. Most victims of drowning are swept away by the water. In some cases, life-ending injuries result from the victim’s cardiac arrest or the exposure to carbon monoxide. Sometimes, death can be caused by a malfunctioning jacket or hypothermia (a condition in which there is a lack of oxygen in a person’s blood). Wearing a life jacket will aid in preventing death and make the situation less scary for 18 wheeler accident lawsuit everyone involved.
Common injuries sustained during an accident on the water
If the incident isn’t managed appropriately, a boating accident could quickly become a disaster. Multiple injuries can be triggered by a boating accident including serious injuries to the head or spinal cord. Certain injuries require immediate medical attention. Despite their frequentity, boating accidents can also lead to disfigurement and amputation. This article will provide a brief overview of some of the most frequent injuries sustained in boating accidents.
Spinal Cord Injuries. When you’re on the boat or at the shore, spinal cord injuries are extremely serious and may cause a victim to lose their ability to move or to function properly. Although it’s not likely to sustain a spinal cord injury when on a boat a collision with a speeding boat could cause this injury. If the spinal cord gets compressed, the victim may be permanently paralyzed or suffer neurological damage. Broken bones are another common result of boating accidents. Common bones that can be broken include the pelvis, femur and shin. Broken vertebrae bones are as a result of more severe injuries.
Brain Injuries – The most common brain injuries sustained during boating accidents are whiplash as well as spinal cord injuries. Both of them can cause serious, life-altering conditions like organ failure. If you or a loved one is suffering from an accident, you should immediately contact a personal injury attorney for assistance. Even if you’re capable of swimming it is possible to drown. Make sure you are able to swim prior to going on any trip.
Drowning – Another type of injury that can happen while boating is drowning. Many individuals are able to swim but a lot of them are unconscious or trapped beneath debris following an accident of serious severity. Many of these victims don’t wear personal flotation devices and end in the water. The effects of drowning can be serious neurological damage , and can be life-threatening. A boat accident could cause drowning.
Medical Care If you’ve been in an accident on the water, it’s essential to seek medical attention as soon as possible. A medical report can aid in pursuing an action against the responsible person. It will help you document your injuries and any complications you may face. Medical reports are required to prove that you’ve suffered an injury to your head or a spinal cord injury.
Legal action following an accident with a boat
You may be able to bring a lawsuit against the person responsible for your injuries if you were involved in a boating accident. You may be able to seek compensation for property damage incurred as a result of the accident, including medical expenses, lost wages and pain and suffering. The extent of your injuries, the circumstances that led to it, and whether you are the one to blame for the accident will impact the amount of damages you can get. In general, financial damages are intended to improve your financial situation prior the accident. In certain circumstances there are punitive damages that can be given in cases of severe negligence.
If you’re injured as a result of an accident while boating it is important to seek medical care immediately. It is crucial to seek medical care as soon as you can following an accident, because some injuries might not be obvious for days or weeks. Additionally, it is essential to exchange information with all parties involved in the incident including the police. If you were involved in a serious boating accident it is possible to obtain police reports.
It is essential to employ an attorney who has experience dealing with boating accidents in order to help you get compensation for your injuries. Jay S. Knispel, LLC provides free consultations to discuss your case. Call our firm now to schedule a complimentary consultation. Our lawyers are knowledgeable of the entire spectrum of maritime law in every state. This means that they are the best to represent your interests. If you’re thinking about filing a lawsuit, you’ll need an expert New York City personal injury attorney to take care of the details you.
In any case, whether you were either a passenger or a boat operator the law requires both boat operators and passengers to exercise reasonable care. Negligence can be proved by proving the other party was negligent. For instance, if a boat was operating without a nautical chart, the operator’s failure to observe the safety guidelines could result in liability. If you think the other party is accountable for the accident, it’s crucial to speak with an attorney.