According to the U.S. Coast Guard, the five most common causes of boat accidents in the country are operator inattention, machinery failure, operator inexperience, excessive speed and improper lookout. Additionally, alcohol is the number one contributing factor in boating accidents as it causes 17 percent of deaths. While fatalities, injuries and accidents decreased 14.1 percent, 2.6 percent and 1.6 percent, respectively, between 2011 and 2012, in 2012 alone, there were 4,515 boating accidents in the U.S. Of these, 3,000 injuries occurred and 651 people died.
Individuals who have been hurt or killed in a boat accident that was caused as a result of negligence may have legal options. It is important to contact a New York boat accident lawyer who can help determine who is responsible for the incident and who can also help injured parties pursue a claim for compensation. While machine and mechanical failures or equipment defects can cause boat accidents, most of the incidents that occur are the result of irresponsibility or negligence.
A New York boat accident lawyer may also be necessary if you have difficulty determining who is responsible. In some cases, more than one party may be required to pay for any damages to which you may be entitled, including:
- The leasing company of the rented boat
- The owner of the boat
- The operator of the boat
- The individual responsible for maintaining, inspecting or repairing the boat
- Personnel, staff or other passengers on the boat
- The manufacturer of an allegedly defective part
After taking all of these factors into consideration, it may become clear as to why a New York boat accident lawyer may be beneficial. While some victims attempt to pursue claims on their own, an experienced attorney can help to recreate the scene of the boat accident, interview witnesses and conduct an investigation to determine who should be held responsible for any injuries or deaths that resulted from the incident. Although compensation is never guaranteed, a victim may be entitled to recover damages for pain and suffering, medical expenses or lost wages.
Do You Have a Valid Case? Contact a New York Boat Accident Lawyer Today
Have you or someone you love been injured in a boat accident in New York and wish to learn more about your options? Contact Attorney Group for New York today for a free, comprehensive case evaluation. If you decide to pursue damages for your injuries, we can connect you with an affiliated New York boat accident lawyer who can help you seek the compensation to which you may be entitled.
