How to File a Boat Accident Claim Boating can be exciting and fun, but should you not be careful, it can quickly become dangerous. Like automobiles, boats must abide by strict safety rules to prevent injuries. If you have been injured in a boating incident you could be entitled to compensation for medical expenses as well as for property damage. To increase your chances of winning get in touch with a professional New York boat accident attorney. 1. Gather Evidence If you are involved in an accident while boating the first step is to gather evidence and contact an attorney. It is also important to seek medical attention right away for any injuries that might have occurred. To support a claim, medical records and other evidence are required. https://vimeo.com/709605892 includes future and current medical expenses as well as loss of earnings or earning potential, property damage and non-economic losses like suffering and pain. Videos and photos can help preserve physical evidence from the scene of a boating incident. Eyewitness testimony can be an invaluable evidence piece as it can provide details about the collision that would otherwise remain unnoticed. You can also utilize police and incident reports to create a time line. A knowledgeable lawyer will review the evidence and determine which parties are responsible for victim's injuries or losses. A successful negligence claim for a boating accident typically involves multiple parties liable, including the boat's owner and the manufacturer or owner of the watercraft. A reputable lawyer will handle all communication with insurance companies that will be involved in a victim's claim to compensation. A lawyer can help victims avoid saying anything that can be used against them in the court of law, and also aid victims in obtaining fair settlements for damages. 2. Report a crime If a boating accident happens the first thing to do is ensure that everyone is safe. You should then contact the police at the scene and submit a police report. In accordance with the state laws and regulations, you may have 48 hours to make an official report in the event of serious injury or death needing medical attention above first aid. In addition, you could have 10 days to file a claim in the event that the accident causes more than $2,000 in damages or if the boat gets lost. You should also remain at the site of the accident and assist other boats or people if possible, without putting your safety or that of the victims. This will enable the police officer to keep track of crucial details like the manner in which the collision occurred and who was onboard at the time of the collision, and what caused it. Even experienced and well-trained boaters can get into accidents on the water because of negligence of another. An experienced lawyer can identify the negligent party responsible for your injuries and help you pursue compensation. Property damage, medical expenses and financial losses are all recoverable damages. In addition, an action against the accountable party could result in financial recovery for your pain and suffering, as well as loss of quality of life and other emotional traumas that are associated with the crash. 3. Check for damage After medical experts have examined the injuries of everyone, and they are all in a safe spot It is essential that you take a thorough look at the damage that has been done to the boat. You must now begin thinking about your insurance policy. A surveyor will be assigned your claim and come out to examine any damage that was caused by the accident. He or she will compare what you originally reported to the damage and then begin calculating the value of the damages. Most boat accidents are the result of a mix of causes, and it is impossible to control all of them. However, if there was a defect by the manufacturer within the vessel itself, it may be possible to file a product liability claim against the company that manufactured the boat. In these cases you require an attorney who has experience in boating claims. They can help you build an argument that is strong and proves the manufacturer is accountable for the accident. It is important to remember that different types of boats are insured by different policies. Insurance for homeowners, for instance typically only covers small boats with engines less than 50 HP. Homeowner's insurance will not cover jet skis, larger vessels or airboats. 4. Contact an attorney Once you're safe and have seen a medical professional for injuries, make sure to notify your insurance company. You will likely need to do so even in the absence of a police report filed. It is important to be cautious with your information since insurance companies will often try and determine who is at fault for the accident. This can decrease the amount of compensation you receive. The NYC lawyers who handle boating accidents at Mirman Markovits & Landau work hard to debunk and limit these claims. If you're able to, it's a good idea to gather information on the other boat owners or operators who were involved in the crash. This includes their address, name, phone number and insurance details. It is also beneficial to keep a copy of the accident report filed. Boat accidents can be terrifying and can result in serious injuries. They can cause massive medical expenses, loss of wages, and damage. Those who are responsible should be held accountable for the harm they caused you. The at-fault parties and insurance companies are not likely to provide the amount you are due It is essential to consult a seasoned New York injury attorney as early as you can. This will help to level the playing field and allow you to focus on getting well.