Boating, sailing, canoeing, and jet skiing are popular pastimes in Pennsylvania and New York. Our proximity to so many bodies of water also provides a number of job opportunities in the maritime industry. Unfortunately, because people often underestimate the dangers associated with boating, and with the numbers of people working or playing on our waters, accidents are bound to occur.
Types of Boating Injuries
- Drowning and near drowning — Although fatalities are rare in boating accidents, most occur as the result of drowning. Near-drowning can cause severe disability.
- Capsized, sunk, or flooded watercraft — Collision, navigator error, or defective construction or maintenance can cause serious injury and extensive property damage.
- Equipment malfunctions — Faulty wiring or other poorly constructed or maintained equipment can cause any number of accidents on the water
- Maritime injury — Injuries sustained by a worker while in the service of a marine vessel may be covered by the Jones Act or other maritime laws
Because of the recreational nature of much of what takes place on the water, impairment is a frequently a factor. Some statistics indicate that as many as half of all boating accidents are alcohol-related.
It is important to note that the statute of limitations for filing a boating accident case must be met in order to have a valid case. Therefore, it is crucial that you be in contact with a boating injury attorney as soon as possible to ensure that your rights are protected.
Legal Aspects of Boating Accidents
Boating accidents often involve legal issues that make them more complicated than other types of personal injury accidents. Liability can be difficult to establish depending on the type of boat or boats involved, who owned, operated, and manufactured them, and whether the boats in question were being used for recreational or commercial purposes.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a boating-related accident, it is essential that you seek an boating injury attorney experienced in maritime law and other aspects of boating. Please contact our boating accident attorneys today to schedule a free consultation to learn how we may be able to obtain compensation for you. There are no legal fees unless you recover for your losses.
