Boating Accident Lawyers
Brick Boating Accident Lawyers
The importance of boating safety cannot be overstated, as serious accidents can happen when not closely followed. Like motor vehicle accidents, severe injuries skyrocket when the boat is larger and going faster.
At Kitrick, McWeeney & Wells, LLC, our Brick boating accident lawyers are knowledgeable and provide clients with trusted legal guidance in boating accident cases. The aftermath can be traumatic, mainly when serious injuries occur and the accident occurs far from shore. We can address all of your questions and concerns after a boating accident in Brick.
What Are the Most Common Causes of Boating Accidents?
Boating accidents can occur for various reasons, often stemming from environmental factors, human error, and mechanical failures. Here are some of the main reasons behind boating accidents:
- Operator inexperience or inattention: Many boating accidents occur due to the operator’s lack of experience or attention. Operating a boat requires skill, awareness of surroundings, and mastery of navigation rules and regulations. Inexperienced operators may struggle to handle unexpected situations, leading to collisions or groundings.
- Excessive speed: High speeds increase the risk of accidents on the water. When boaters operate their vessels at excessive speeds, they have less time to react to hazards like other boats, swimmers, or submerged objects. Speeding can lead to collisions, capsizing, or ejections.
- Alcohol use: Boating under the influence of alcohol or drugs is hazardous, but people do it all the time. Alcohol affects boaters’ ability to assess risks, make sound decisions, and react fast enough, making it a dangerous combination with boating.
- Weather conditions: Unfavorable weather, like strong winds, storms, or fog, can create hazardous boating conditions. Poor visibility and rough waters increase the risk of collisions, capsizing, and individuals falling overboard. That is why ignoring weather forecasts or underestimating changing conditions is never wise.
- Equipment failure: Mechanical issues with the boat or its components can result in accidents. Engine failures, steering problems, or malfunctioning lights can compromise safety on the water. Regular maintenance and inspections help prevent accidents caused by equipment failures.
- Reckless behavior: Some boaters engage in reckless behavior, like playing chicken, wake jumping, or weaving through congested waterways. These behaviors increase the likelihood of collisions and endanger the lives of everyone on the water.
- Lack of proper safety equipment: Accidents can escalate into tragedies when boaters lack essential safety equipment like life jackets, fire extinguishers, or distress signals. Failing to equip the boat with these items or neglecting to use them significantly reduces survivability in emergencies.
What Should I Do After a Boating Accident?
After a boating accident, prioritize safety and take appropriate steps to protect yourself and others involved. Follow these guidelines:
- Ensure everyone’s safety by calling for medical help.
- Provide first-aid if necessary.
- When possible, move the boat to a safe location if necessary.
- Exchange contact and insurance information with other parties involved.
- Document the accident scene by taking photographs of damages, injuries, and any relevant factors like open bottles of alcohol, weather conditions, or obstructions.
How Is Liability Determined in Boating Accidents?
Like other personal injury cases, negligence is often a factor in determining liability in boating accidents. Negligence occurs when a person fails to exercise reasonable care and harms others.
Our boating accident lawyers in Brick investigate these crashes from every angle. We can determine if there were violations of navigational rules or regulations or if anyone was operating a vessel under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Our team can also work to establish if a driver was inattentive or distractive while operating their boat.
We can also investigate accident reports and vessel maintenance records. All the boats involved will be inspected for damage, and eyewitness and expert testimony can also help determine negligence.
What Damages Can I Recover in a Boating Accident Lawsuit?
In a boating accident lawsuit, you may be entitled to recover various damages, including but not limited to:
- Medical expenses for treatment of injuries
- Property damage to your vessel or personal belongings
- Lost wages or income due to inability to work
- Pain and suffering caused by the accident
Should I Speak to Insurance Adjusters After My Boating Accident?
It is best to inform your boat insurance company about what happened after an accident. However, you should avoid speaking to insurance adjusters in detail without legal representation. They may attempt to minimize their liability or offer inadequate settlements.
Report the incident, provide the basic facts, and let them know you called for help; do not offer opinions or admit guilt. It is safer to consult first with an experienced Brick boating lawyer who can advocate on your behalf and ensure your rights are protected throughout the claims process.
Can I File a Lawsuit if I Was Injured as a Passenger on a Boat?
Yes, passengers injured in boating accidents may be eligible to file lawsuits against negligent parties, including boat operators, owners, or others involved. As a passenger, you can seek compensation for your injuries and losses resulting from the accident.
Why Choose Kitrick, McWeeney & Wells, LLC for Your Boating Accident Case
With their knowledge and legal experience, our Brick boating accident lawyers at Kitrick, McWeeney & Wells, LLC can evaluate the circumstances of the accident, determine liability, and advise you on your legal rights and options. Our team conducts thorough investigations, gathers evidence, and examines the full extent of your damages, including injuries and property damage.
We can advocate for your best interests, whether negotiating with insurance companies or representing you in court. We also have access to a network of experts who can provide valuable insights and testimony to strengthen your case. Ultimately, our experience and advocacy can greatly improve your chances of obtaining a favorable outcome in your boating accident case.
What Is the Statute of Limitations for Filing a Boating Accident Lawsuit?
In New Jersey, the statute of limitations for filing a boating accident lawsuit is typically two years from the date of the accident. It is best to consult with a boating accident lawyer as soon as possible to ensure you do not miss any deadlines for pursuing legal action.
Contact Our Skilled Brick Boating Accident Lawyers at Kitrick, McWeeney & Wells, LLC for a Free Consultation Today
If you need legal assistance with a boating accident claim, our experienced Brick boating accident lawyers at Kitrick, McWeeney & Wells, LLC will offer sound legal advice and can help you seek the compensation you deserve. Call 732-655-3168 or submit our online form to learn more and to schedule a free consultation. With offices in Manasquan and Brick, New Jersey, we serve clients in Middlesex County, Atlantic County, Mercer County, Monmouth County, and Ocean County.
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