For fishing, sports, transport, and other activities, boating is a popular pastime in New York state; and one unfortunate side effect of this popularity is boating accidents.
In part due to the recreational nature of much boating, impairment is more frequently a factor in boating accidents than in other types of vehicle accidents. In fact, according to some statistics, as many as half of all boating accidents are alcohol related.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a boating accident, it is essential that you seek competent and experienced legal representation as soon as possible. An attorney experienced in maritime law and other aspects of boating can help you secure and protect your rights under the law, and can help you sort out the often complicated aspects of the laws and regulations surrounding boating as an industry and as recreation.
Types of boating accidents
Boating accidents can take many different forms, and may involve one or more of the following:
- Drownings and near drownings. Fatalities are rare in boating accidents, but most fatalities that do occur are the result of drowning.
- Capsized, sunk, or flooded boats. Whether due to impact with another boat, navigator error, or defective construction or maintenance, boats taking on water or capsizing can have serious consequences.
- Equipment malfunctions. Problems such as faulty wiring or other poorly constructed or maintained equipment may cause injuries and property damage.
Legal aspects of boating accidents
Boating accidents frequently involve legal issues that make them more complicated than many other types of personal injury accident. Depending on the type of boat or boats involved, and who owned, operated, and manufactured them, liability may be difficult to sort out and establish. Further, the regulations and governing bodies that oversee boating matters may differ depending on whether the boats in question were being used for commercial or recreational purposes.
Free, no obligation consultation
If you or a family member has suffered injuries or financial losses as a result of a boating accident, contact a personal injury attorney with experience in boating laws today. He or she can help you sort out all of the complicated legal issues that surround cases like yours, and will help you determine how best to move forward with your claim.
If you're in the Syracuse or Binghamton New York area, please call or email The Stanley Law Offices today to schedule a free, no obligation consultation with one of our attorneys, to review your case in detail.
