How to Calculate Damages in a Boat Accident Case If someone else's negligence results in an accident on a boat, the victims may be able to recover damages. These damages include the past, present and future medical expenses; lost wages; suffering and other costs. An experienced attorney can investigate the crash to uncover important evidence. This could include the actual boat as well as witness statements and other documents. Negligence As with a car accident, to be eligible for compensation in a boat crash instance, you need to prove that the negligence of a third party directly contributed to your injuries. In a boating crash, the process of determining fault is more complicated than in a car crash. There are specific laws and rulings that must be followed when determining liability. An experienced lawyer will assess the evidence to determine who is the party who was negligent. Boat accidents are usually caused by human error, mechanical issues and other causes that could be avoided by proper maintenance or caution. These incidents may also be the result of reckless or careless actions, such as speeding, drunk driving inattention or drunkenness. Imagine that you're a guest on a sailing boat which is moored at the dock. A small motorboat suddenly appears at a high rate and slams against the side of the vessel. In the process you sustain serious injuries to your back, head and neck. The person who is operating the boat is responsible for any damages you suffer in the same way that the driver of an automobile is. It is possible that the owner of the boat may be liable too when they permit someone to operate the boat who is not able to safely do so. This is typically the situation in the case of tour boats or commercial vessels. https://vimeo.com/709558291 In the event of a boating accident the amount of compensation you can receive depends on the severity and cost of your injuries. Medical expenses should be included in any award, as well as your past and future loss of income if you were unable to work due to your injuries. You could also receive compensation for physical and mental suffering, which is often difficult to quantify. In some cases, the boat's owner or operator may be held accountable for injuries that result from their negligence if no safety equipment available on board. This includes life jackets, fire extinguishers, flares and navigational lights. These could also include items to aid in rescue operations such as horns, whistles, or whistles that call for help. Inattention or inexperience of the operator alcohol consumption and malfunctions of machinery are among the most common causes of boat accidents and injuries. Other factors, including waves and wakes and dangerous waters, can also cause accidents and injuries. If you've been injured in an accident on a boat it is essential to obtain the names and details of insurance of all involved parties as soon as you can after the incident. Your lawyer will then be able conduct a thorough investigation into the root of the issue. They will take photos of the scene and any damage, and talk to witnesses to get their accounts of what happened. Time Limits If you have suffered injuries in a boating accident, you could be eligible for compensation. It is important to realize that these cases can be complicated and there are numerous factors that can affect the outcomes. For instance, you have to prove that the at-fault party breached their duty of care by failing to be vigilant when operating a vessel. A NYC boat accident attorney will assist you in gathering evidence to show how the negligent party caused your injuries. It is important to remember that you have a finite time to submit a claim. This is known as the statute of limitations. It applies to boating accidents as well as other personal injury claims. A lawyer can help you understand the statute of limitations applicable to your situation, and how it is related to other laws. Boat accidents that cause serious injury can result in many injuries, including neck and back injuries. They can also result in fractured bones, brain injuries, internal injuries, paralysis and burns. These injuries can have devastating consequences, particularly in the event that you suffer from long-term or permanent disabilities which render you unable to work and live your life. After a boating accident, it is important to seek medical attention and employ an attorney who has experience in these cases. Insurance A boating incident can be devastating especially if someone is severely injured or killed. While no amount will bring the person you love back however, it might be enough to cover costs for medical bills, lost wages and other costs. It is essential to understand how the damages are calculated and what insurance coverage is available. You have the same rights to sue the person responsible for your injuries as you would in an auto accident. Your lawyer will be able to identify the sources of liability and assist you in seeking compensation from those who are responsible for your losses. Boating accidents are often caused by a variety of factors, such as speeding and operating under the influence of alcohol or drugs. In addition, bad weather conditions are often the cause of boating accidents. Most boat owners have insurance to protect themselves against damage or loss to their vessels. A standard boating policy provides the hull and personal property insurance to cover repairs and replacement of your boat in the event of an accident or theft. Many boat owners also have medical coverage, which will pay for first aid and other costs that a person incurs if he is injured on the vessel. Additionally many boaters carry umbrella policies to offer additional protection against liability beyond the scope of their regular boating policy.