Boat Collisions with Other Vessels: Understanding Liability and Your Rights
When two or more boats collide, the consequences can be catastrophic. Boat collisions often result in severe injuries, property damage, and even fatalities. These accidents are frequently caused by reckless operation, inattention, speeding, or failure to follow navigational rules. If you or a loved one has been injured in a boat-on-boat collision, you may be entitled to compensation. At Dermer Law, we are committed to holding negligent parties accountable and ensuring that you receive the justice and financial recovery you deserve.
Determining liability in a boat collision can be complex. In many cases, more than one party may be responsible, including boat operators, rental companies, or vessel owners. Understanding your legal options after a collision is essential for protecting your rights.
Common Causes of Boat Collisions
Many boat accidents occur due to operator negligence or failure to follow boating laws. Some of the most common causes of boat collisions include:
Operator Inattention
Distracted boaters may fail to see other vessels in their path.
Speeding
Excessive speeds reduce reaction time and make it difficult to avoid collisions.
Failure to Yield
Ignoring right-of-way rules can lead to dangerous crashes.
Boating Under the Influence (BUI)
Alcohol and drug use impair judgment, reaction time, and coordination.
Mechanical Failures
Poorly maintained boats or engine malfunctions can lead to loss of control.
Crowded Waterways
Heavy boat traffic increases the likelihood of accidents, especially in recreational areas.
Determining Liability in a Boat Collision Case
In a boat collision, multiple parties may be held responsible depending on who was at fault. At Dermer Law, we help clients establish liability by proving the following:
Duty of Care
All boat operators have a responsibility to follow maritime laws and operate their vessels safely.
Breach of Duty
One or more boaters acted negligently, such as by speeding, ignoring navigation rules, or failing to maintain control.
Causation
The negligent actions of a boater directly caused the collision and resulting injuries.
Damages
Victims suffered injuries and financial losses, such as medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Compensation for Boat Collision Victims
A boat-on-boat collision can lead to serious injuries, including concussions, spinal cord damage, fractures, and drowning-related complications. If your injury resulted from another party’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for:
Medical expenses
Emergency care, hospital bills, surgeries, and rehabilitation.
Lost wages
Compensation for missed work due to your injury.
Pain and suffering
Damages for emotional distress, physical pain, and reduced quality of life.
Steps to Take After a Boat Collision
If you've been involved in a boat collision, taking the right steps immediately can help protect your legal rights. Here’s what you should do:
Report the accident
Notify the Coast Guard or local boating authorities and request an accident report.
Take photos
Document the scene, vessel damage, injuries, and any contributing factors.
Get medical attention
Seek treatment for your injuries immediately.
Gather witness information
If other boaters or passengers saw the accident, get their contact details.
Consult a lawyer
Speak with an experienced boating accident lawyer to discuss your legal options.
Contact Dermer Law Today
At Dermer Law, we understand how devastating boat collisions can be. That’s why we are committed to providing personalized attention and aggressive legal representation. We believe in “Clients. Not Cases.”—meaning we treat you with the respect and care you deserve.
If you or a loved one has suffered injuries in a boat collision, don’t let a negligent boater’s actions go unchallenged. Contact Dermer Law today for a free consultation. We are here to fight for you and ensure that you receive the justice and compensation you deserve.
Call us now to schedule your free case evaluation!
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