Boat Accident Attorneys If you've been injured in an accident in the boating industry, and it was not your fault, you could be entitled to a substantial payout. This could include medical bills, physical therapy and income loss due to inability to work. Certain victims may also be awarded punitive damages when the conduct of the defendant was reckless and egregious. These types of awards are crafted to penalize the defendant and discourage similar conduct in the future. Personal Injury Although boating accidents may cause serious injuries, a majority of them can be avoided. Boat accidents are usually caused by inexperienced and untrained boaters, and other careless choices like driving under the under the influence of alcohol, transporting many passengers, and reckless behavior. Injuries can vary from lacerations and bruising to permanent paralysis from head injuries or a spinal cord injury. Victims injured in a boating incident can receive compensation for their medical expenses as well as lost income or job while they recuperate. They may also be able to recover the costs of long-term care for injuries that are permanent. Insurance companies typically try to offer less money than the victims have earned when estimating a claim's value. An experienced lawyer can fight for the maximum settlement that is possible. A New York City boat accident lawyer will conduct a thorough investigation of the incident to ensure that all relevant evidence is gathered. This includes the gathering of crucial documents, such as police reports and witness statements, vessel maintenance documents, chemical tests and photos of the accident site and the property damage. Medical records can provide vital information, like detailed reports of the injuries, expenses and any future costs. https://vimeo.com/709746579 will then negotiate with the at-fault party or the insurance company for an equitable settlement. Maritime Workers' Compensation Maritime workers working on workboats and other vessels, including supply ships, are subject to hazardous conditions throughout their employment. They are at risk of being injured not just from falling equipment or cargo and cargo, but also due to boat accidents caused by negligence or recklessness of other parties on board the vessel. Seamen have certain rights under the Jones Act and other federal laws that protect them from negligence by employers. They have the right to full compensation under the Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act. The damages could include medical expenses and lost income, as well as the cost of living while recovering the injury, pain and suffering, and other benefits monetary. A lot of seamen injured while on a supply ship tugboat, dredger or tugboat barge, oil tanker, or cruise or sightseeing vessel require more than just workers' compensation to compensate their injuries. A New York boat accident attorney will be able to identify third-party claims the seaman could be entitled to claims, for instance, allegations of a lack of seaworthiness or an employer's inability to keep the safety of the vessel. Your lawyer will gather important documents and evidence in connection with your claim. This includes medical records, details about insurance policies, police reports and more. They will then engage in settlement negotiations with the lawyer for the defendant and insurance company on your behalf. If a fair settlement is not able to be reached, they will prepare for trial so that they can make a convincing argument in court on your behalf. Product Defects Many boat accidents are caused by defective equipment. The majority of accidents on boats result from the negligent or reckless behavior of the boat's owner. In these instances, victims may seek compensation from the company that made the defective product by filing a lawsuit. In these situations, an Reston, VA product defect lawyer can help. Defective equipment and boats may be covered under strict liability, negligence or warranty law. Warranty claims can be based on a breach of implied or express warranties imposed by law such as the New Jersey used car lemon laws or the warranties of merchantability and fit and finish under the Uniform Commercial Code. Insurance policies typically cover hidden defects as well. While some consumers may suggest that an issue is evident or obvious, courtrooms frequently require an expert witness by a surveyor or other qualified professional to determine if a mechanical breakdown or other damage was caused by a concealed problem. There are some defects that are discovered after a boat is sold. These are usually considered manufacturing defects and are the responsibility of the manufacturer. Other defects are discovered after the boat is operated and owned and may be the responsibility of the owner. One example is when the boat owner fails to empty the water from the engine and the water freezes and damages the motor during winter. Insurance Boating and other water sports are very popular in New York, a state with easy access the Atlantic Ocean and many lakes. However, like most recreational activities, they are accompanied by certain risks and liabilities that could impact the lives of participants. When boating accidents happen victims may make a personal injury claim or wrongful death claim for compensation to cover their losses. Damages may include medical costs, loss of income, property losses in addition to pain and suffering diminished quality of life, permanent disability, disfigurement, and other expenses. Victims may also seek punitive damages in cases of reckless or gross negligence behaviour by the at-fault party. Insurance companies can be difficult to negotiate with in a boating case especially when their primary goal is to compensate the least amount possible. Find a NYC lawyer who will work closely with insurers to ensure that all parties are held accountable for their actions. An experienced attorney will thoroughly review all available evidence such as police reports, medical records and witness testimony. They will then enter into discussions with both the at-fault person and their insurance company to reach an acceptable settlement. If they cannot reach a settlement then our lawyers will prepare for trial. We are experts in providing evidence to support your claim and securing maximum amount of money.