20 Trailblazers Are Leading The Way In Boat Accident Attorney
Boat Accident Attorneys
If you've been injured as a result of an accident while on a boat, and it was not your fault you may be entitled to a substantial amount of compensation. This could include medical bills, physical therapies, and lost income due to the inability to work.
Certain victims may be awarded punitive damages, in cases where the conduct of the defendant was reckless and indecent. These awards are intended to punish the defendant for their conduct and to prevent future incidents.
Personal Injury
Boating accidents can result in serious injuries but many are avoidable. Boat accidents are often caused by inexperienced and untrained boaters, as well as other reckless choices such as driving under the effects of alcohol, carrying too many passengers, or reckless behavior. Injuries can range from lacerations and bruises to permanent paralysis from spinal cord or head injury.
Victims injured by a boating accident could be compensated for medical expenses and lost income or work as they recuperate. If their injuries last for a long time they may also be able to recover costs for long-term care. Insurance companies frequently try to settle for less than the victims should receive when estimating claims' value. An experienced lawyer can assist you in negotiating the highest amount of compensation possible.
A New York City boating accident lawyer will conduct a thorough investigation into the accident to gather all evidence relevant. This includes collecting important documents, like witness statements and police reports as well as logs of maintenance for the vessel chemical tests, photographs of the accident scene and property damage. Other vital information can be obtained from medical records, which include detailed accounts of the injuries sustained, the expenses incurred, as well as estimated future costs. The lawyer can then negotiate a fair settlement with the at-fault person and/or insurance company.
Maritime Workers' Compensation
Maritime workers working on workboats as well as other vessels, including supply ships, are subject to dangerous conditions during their work. They are at risk of being injured not just by cargo or equipment falling as well as boat accidents caused by the negligence or recklessness of others aboard the vessel.
The Jones Act and other federal statutes protect seamen from employer negligence. They are entitled to full compensation under the Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act. These damages could include medical expenses as well as lost income, the cost of living while recovering, pain and suffering and other financial benefits.
Often, seamen who are injured on a supply vessel such as tugboats or dredgers oil tanks, barges, cruise boats, or sightseeing vessels require more than workers' compensation to cover their expenses. A New York boat accident attorney can identify third-party claims that a seaman may be eligible for like claims of unreliability or the employer's inability to maintain an appropriate vessel.
Your lawyer will gather crucial documents and evidence that relate to your claim. This includes medical records, details about insurance policies, police reports and much more. They will then negotiate an agreement with the attorney for the defendant and the insurance company on your behalf. If a fair agreement cannot be reached the lawyers will prepare for trial in order to present a strong case in the court on behalf of you.
Product Defects
Many boat accident lawyers accidents are caused by defective equipment. The majority of accidents on boats are caused by the reckless or negligent behavior of the boat's owner. In these instances, victims can seek compensation from the company that manufactured the defective product by filing a lawsuit. A Reston, VA, product defect lawyer can help in these cases.
Defective equipment and boats may be covered by claims based on negligence, strict liability or warranty law. A warranty claim could be based on a breach of implied or express guarantees that are imposed by law, such as the New Jersey lemon laws for used vehicles or the warranties of merchantability, or the guarantee of fit and finish under Uniform Commercial Code.
Insurance policies typically cover hidden defects too. While some consumers suggest a problem is clear or obvious, courts often require expert testimony from a surveyor, or any other qualified professional to determine whether an engine failure or other damage was caused by a concealed issue.
There are some defects that are discovered after a boat is sold. They are usually regarded as manufacturing defects and are the responsibility of the manufacturer. Some are discovered after the boat has been operated and owned and could be the owner's fault. One example is when a boat owner fails to emptying of the engine of water and the water freezes, which affects the motor in winter.
Insurance
Boating and other water sports are very popular in New York, a state with easy access to the Atlantic Ocean and many lakes. However, like all recreational activities, they carry certain risks and liabilities that could impact the lives of participants.
In the event of boating accidents, injured individuals may pursue a personal injury wrongful death claim for compensation to cover their losses. Medical expenses, lost income, property losses, as well as suffering and pain are all considered damages. Victims may also seek punitive damages when they are the result of reckless or gross negligence behavior by the party at fault.
Insurance companies aren't easy to work with in a boating case especially when their primary objective is to pay the lowest amount they can. Make sure you are level playing field by hiring a NYC boating injury attorney who will work with insurers to ensure all parties involved are accountable for their actions.
An experienced lawyer will examine all evidence available that is available, including police reports medical records, and witness testimony. They will then engage in negotiations with both the at-fault person and their insurance company to reach a fair settlement. If they cannot agree on a settlement then our lawyers will prepare for trial. We are experienced in the presentation of evidence to support your claim and obtaining the maximum financial award.