Boating is a common and much loved part of outdoor recreation. As with any vehicle, safety must be a priority and care must be exercised to prevent boating accidents from occurring. According to the United States Coast Guard, more than 4,000 injuries occur each year as the result of boating accidents, with over 600 of those injuries resulting in death. Accidents on the water are becoming more prevalent as congestion on waterways and on the open ocean increases.

Though there are laws in place to protect those out on the water. Oftentimes, boating and recreational vehicle accidents are the result of negligence and criminal acts. If you were injured or a loved one suffered a wrongful death in the course of boating or swimming, you may be able to pursue compensation.

Call the seasoned Bellingham boat accident lawyers of Walton Law.

Leading Causes of Boating Accidents

Whether on a ferry, a cruise ship, a chartered boat, a jet ski, a private yacht, etc., several factors can lead to a boating accident. Some boaters on the water lack the appropriate experience and education to safely operate their vessel or recreational vehicle.

Most accidents on the water are largely preventable, which means that the injuries that many sustain might have been avoided if proper care had been taken. It may be appropriate to sue for damages if another’s negligence caused or contributed to your injuries on the water.

The factors listed below are among the main contributors to boating accidents:

  • Driver inexperience
  • Driver error or inattention
  • Driving while intoxicated
  • Unfavorable water and/or weather conditions
  • Equipment failure
  • Violating navigation rules
  • Insufficient lookout or vantage point

Common Injuries Sustained in Boating Accidents

More often than not, the injuries that result from boating accidents involve collisions, either with another water vessel, fixed objects, or floating debris. However, other major causes of injury when boating include capsizing, boat patrons falling overboard, flooding/swamping of the boat, or a fire on board.

Some of the most frequently occurring harm that results from boating accidents includes:

  • Drowning
  • Traumatic brain injury
  • Spinal cord injury
  • Amputation injury
  • Crush injury
  • Broken bones
  • Burns

Compensation for Boating Accidents

Though the circumstances of every claim and case differ, the best way to determine whether you are eligible for compensation for your injuries and/or your subsequent lost wages is to discuss the details of your case with an experienced personal injury and boating accident attorney.

It is important to note that some boating accident claims can be settled outside of court through insurance companies. A personal injury attorney with years of experience can represent your interests during negotiations with the insurance company in question.

Should your case go to mediation or to court, it is essential to have a knowledgeable boating accident attorney on your side who can best advise you of your rights and fight on your behalf for the financial compensation you deserve.

Consult a Seasoned Boat Accident Lawyer

Regardless of the type of boat accident involved, the seasoned personal injury lawyers of Walton Law can assist you in the investigation, and if appropriate, help you recover the maximum amount in damages.

It is important you seek the assistance to help you understand the laws governing inland waters and how they differ from federal maritime laws affecting coastal waters and estuaries.

If you or someone you love has been hurt because of a collision, sunk boat, capsized boat, or in a water-skiing or fishing accident, contact us immediately to protect your rights. For a free and confidential consultation with an experienced attorney, please call us directly at (866) 338-7079, or contact us through our online form.

Bellingham Office Location

2219 Rimland Dr., Suite 301,
Bellingham, WA 98226
(360) 543-1010