Boat Accident Attorneys If you've suffered injuries as a result of a boating accident and it wasn't your fault you may be entitled to a substantial amount of compensation. This could include physical therapy, medical bills and income loss because of your inability to work. Certain victims may also be awarded punitive damages in cases where the conduct of the defendant was reckless and indecent. These types of awards are intended to punish the perpetrator and deter similar actions in the future. Personal Injury Boating accidents can cause serious injuries, however many are avoidable. Inexperienced and untrained boaters are a common cause of boat-related accidents as well as other reckless choices like driving under the influence, transporting too many passengers, and reckless behavior. The severity of injuries can be anything from bruising and cuts to permanent paralysis due to spinal cord or head injury. Victims injured in a boating incident can be compensated for medical expenses as well as lost income or work while they recuperate. If their injuries are severe they may also be able to recover costs for long-term care. Unfortunately the process of estimating the value of a personal injury claim isn't an easy task. Insurance companies often try to settle for less than victims are entitled to. An experienced lawyer can fight for the maximum settlement that is feasible. A New York City boating accident lawyer will conduct a thorough investigation into the incident in order to collect all relevant evidence. This includes the gathering of crucial documents like police reports as well as witness statements, vessel maintenance documents, chemical tests and photos of the accident site and property damage. Other vital information can be gathered from medical records, including detailed descriptions of the injuries sustained, expenses incurred, and estimates of future costs. The lawyer may then negotiate a fair settlement with the person at fault or insurance company. Maritime Workers' Compensation Maritime workers on workboats, supply ships and other vessels are typically exposed to dangerous conditions in the course of working. They are at risk of getting injured not just by cargo or equipment falling and cargo, but also due to boat accidents caused by the negligence or recklessness of others on board the vessel. The Jones Act and other federal statutes protect seamen from employer negligence. They have the right to full compensation under the Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act. The damages could include medical expenses, lost income, cost of living during recovery from injuries, pain and suffering and other monetary benefits. Often, seamen who are injured on a supply boat tugboat, dredger or tugboat barge, oil tanker, or cruise or sightseeing vessel require more than just workers' compensation to cover their expenses. A knowledgeable New York boat accident lawyer will be able to identify any other third-party claims that a seaman may be able to claim compensation, including allegations of insecurities and the employer's inability to maintain the safety of the vessel. Your lawyer will gather crucial documents and evidence regarding your claim, including medical records and insurance policy details and police reports, among others. They will then engage in settlement negotiations with the lawyer of the defendant and insurance company on your behalf. If a fair settlement is not agreed upon, they will create a strong case for trial on your behalf. Product Defects While the majority of boat crashes occur because of reckless or negligent behavior of the boat operator, there are also many cases where a crash is actually the result of defective equipment. In these instances, the victims could sue the firm that made the defective product to seek compensation. A Reston, VA, product defect lawyer can assist in these instances. Boats and defective equipment can be covered under strict liability, negligence, or warranty law. A warranty claim may be based on a breach of implied or express guarantees provided by law, for example the New Jersey lemon laws for used vehicles or the warranties of merchantability, or the fit and finish of the Uniform Commercial Code. Insurance policies typically cover hidden defects, too. While some consumers may suggest that a problem is clear or obvious, courts often require expert testimony by a surveyor or other expert to determine if the mechanical breakdown or another damage was caused by a concealed issue. Certain defects are discovered after a boat has been sold. They are usually regarded as manufacturing defects and are the responsibility of the manufacturer. Other defects are discovered after the boat is operated and owned and could be the responsibility of the owner. One example is when the owner forgets the empty the engine of water and the water freezes and damages the motor during winter. Insurance In a state such as New York with easy access to the Atlantic Ocean and numerous lakes and waterways, boating and other water recreation activities are common for residents. However, like all recreational activities, they carry certain risks and liabilities that could affect the lives of those who participate. When boating accidents happen victims may file a personal injury or wrongful death claim to receive compensation to compensate for their losses. The damages include medical expenses loss of income, property losses along with pain and suffering, diminished quality of life, permanent disability, disfigurement and other expenses. In https://vimeo.com/709526609 of gross negligence, victims may also pursue punitive damages. Insurance companies involved in a maritime accident case can be difficult to work with, especially when their main objective is to pay you as little as is possible. Make sure you are level playing field by hiring a NYC lawyer for boating injuries who will work with insurers to ensure that all parties are held accountable for their actions. An experienced lawyer will scrutinize all evidence available including police reports as well as medical records. They will also investigate witnesses' testimony. They will then enter into discussions with both the at-fault person and their insurance company to reach an acceptable settlement. If they fail to agree on a settlement the attorneys of our firm will prepare for trial. We are proficient in presenting evidence in support of your claim and winning the maximum financial award.