Boating Accidents

New York Boating Accidents Attorney

In 2021, there were more than sixty boating accidents in New York, and  approximately 16 fatal boating accidents, according to a New York State Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation report. While this number might not seem high at first, each of these types of accidents could result in devastating consequences, especially for the families of those that lost a loved one.

If you have sustained an injury due to a New York boat collision, you are entitled to seek financial compensation for your injuries. An experienced attorney could evaluate your case and guide you in your pursuit of compensation. To learn more, contact the Bulldog Law Group, P.C., right away.

Common Causes of Boating Accidents In New York

Five Common Causes of Boating Accidents Include: 

1. Operator inexperience or error, such as failing to keep a proper lookout or operating the boat while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

2. Excessive speed, which can make it difficult to control the boat and avoid collisions with other vessels or objects in the water.

3. Equipment failure, such as a malfunctioning engine or steering system, which can cause the boat to become uncontrollable or lead to other types of accidents.

4. Poor weather conditions, such as high winds, heavy rain, or fog, which can reduce visibility and make it more difficult to operate the boat safely.

5. Violations of navigational rules, such as failing to observe speed limits, right-of-way rules, or other safety regulations, which can increase the risk of collisions and other accidents.

facts surrounding your crash

Investigating a boating crash requires a thorough examination of the scene, including the vessels involved, any physical evidence, and witness statements. It is important to gather all available information and documentation, including any reports from law enforcement and the U.S. Coast Guard. An experienced attorney can work with investigators and medical experts to identify the cause of the crash and determine liability. With a comprehensive investigation, the injured parties may be able to pursue compensation for their damages and losses. By understanding the factors in a crash, you increase your chances of identifying the at-fault party or parties. Several common boating accidents are: 

  • Colliding with other vessels
  • Colliding with fixed objects
  • Going overboard
  • Weather-related claims
  • Going overboard
  • Going overboard
  • Running aground
  • Sinking
  • Sinking
  • Sinking
  • Sinking
  • Sinking

Collisions With Other Vessels

One of the more common types of boating accidents involves two vessels colliding into each other. There are a number of potential causes for these accidents. In many cases, inattentive or intoxicated operators may fail to notice the other boat until it is too late. In other cases, inexperienced boat operators may inadvertently cause a crash.

Colliding With Fixed Objects

Many of the hazards facing New York boaters are hidden in plain sight. Just below the surface of the water are rocks, trees, and other obstructions that could lead to a crash. When a boat operator is negligent, they could fail to notice an obvious hazard.

Going Overboard

While the term boating accident conjures visions of a violent crash, one of the most devastating accidents can occur when a passenger falls overboard. By falling overboard, a boater risks drowning or being struck by another vessel. While the boat operator could cause a passenger to fall overboard, other passengers could also be responsible.

Running Aground

Grounding a boat is another common type of accident. These accidents occur when a boat strikes land, often with enough force to partially or fully leave the water. The jolt resulting from a sudden grounding can send passengers flying.

Liability for Boat Owners & Operators

While many boat crashes occur due to the negligence of its operator, they are not the only party that could potentially face liability following an accident. In some cases, the owner of the boat could also face civil liability – even if they were not present at the time of the accident.

For a plaintiff to demonstrate at trial that a defendant boat operator was responsible for the accident, they must show the court that the other  party was negligent. Negligence involves any careless, reckless, or wanton act that results in harm. If a plaintiff can show that the other boat operator was negligent, they could recover monetary compensation for their injuries.

A boat owner could also be negligent in an accident even if they were not present. The owner of a boat has the responsibility not to allow an unsafe operator to use their vessel. If a boat owner hands over the keys to someone that is intoxicated or unable to safely operate the boat, they could also be on the hook for damages.

Boating Damages

Because of the severity and risk of death that many boating accidents involve, the damages awarded in these cases are often significant. While medical bills commonly make up the bulk of a damage award following a boat crash, there are other types of damages available as well. These include:

  • Pain and suffering
  • Medical expenses
  • Lost wages
  • Diminished earning capacity
  • Mental anguish
  • Disability

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Contact A New York Boating Accident Lawyer Today

If you would like more information about how to proceed with your boating accident, contact an experienced attorney at the Bulldog Law Group, P.C. to discuss your case.  

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(934) 221-1258