Boat Accident Attorneys

The Bay Area is a popular location for all kinds of boats, from sailboats to large cargo ships. However, accidents can happen when people are not careful. If you or a loved one has been injured while out on a boat, it is important to seek legal help to obtain compensation for your injuries.

Common Causes of Boat Accidents

Boating accidents can be caused by various factors, including fires, explosions, boats flipping over, and crashing into objects. Victims can also get hurt when water skiing or wakeboarding. Boating under the influence of drugs or alcohol is particularly dangerous and can result in accidents that cause harm or death to others.

Staffed Vessel Accidents

Not only personal vessels, but also staffed ships such as cruise ships, tour boats, and shuttles can be dangerous. In many cases, accidents occur due to an individual’s negligence in maintaining safe living quarters, dining spaces or walkways. If you have been injured on someone else’s property, a lawyer can help you obtain compensation.

Laws Regarding Cruise Ships and Other Vessels at Sea

Any incident that occurs while at sea or in port on a cruise ship must first be filed as a claim before any legal action can proceed in court. Filing a claim can be confusing, so it is essential to contact an attorney who can help you understand California laws and international laws regarding cruise ships and other vessels at sea. The Jones Act allows those working on ships and boats to sue their employers. Additionally, many of the standards of proof in these cases are relaxed, making it easier for employees to pursue compensation.

Statistics on boating accidents

• According to the U.S. Coast Guard the leading cause of boating accidents is operator inattention.
• In 2019, the U.S. Coast Guard reported that there were 4,168 boating accidents that resulted in 613 deaths and 2,559 injuries.
• The use of alcohol is the second leading contributing factor in fatal boating accidents.
• The U.S. Coast Guard also reported that 86% of boating accident fatalities involved victims who were not wearing life jackets.
• Boating accidents are not just limited to recreational activities – many workers in the maritime industry, such as those working on cargo ships or oil rigs, are at risk for accidents while on the job.

It’s important to remember that boating accidents can have serious and sometimes fatal consequences. Taking precautions such as wearing a life jacket, not operating a boat while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, and paying close attention to your surroundings while on the water can help prevent accidents from happening.

Injuries caused by boating accidents:

Boating accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, from minor cuts and bruises to severe, life-altering injuries. Some of the most common injuries that can occur in a boating accident include:

1. Traumatic Brain Injuries: These can occur if a person is thrown overboard or if the boat collides with another object, causing the brain to move rapidly inside the skull.
2. Spinal Cord Injuries: These can result from the impact of the collision or from being thrown overboard. Spinal cord injuries can cause paralysis or partial loss of mobility.
3. Broken Bones: The force of impact in a boating accident can easily lead to broken bones. This is especially true for the arms, legs, and ribs.
4. Cuts and Lacerations: Broken glass, sharp metal, and other debris can cause serious cuts and lacerations that may require stitches or other medical treatment.
5. Hypothermia: Falling overboard or being exposed to cold water for an extended period of time can result in hypothermia, a dangerous condition where the body’s temperature drops too low.
6. Drowning: In severe cases, a boating accident can lead to drowning, which can occur if a person is unable to swim or stay afloat after falling overboard or if the boat sinks.

It is important to seek medical attention immediately following a boating accident, even if injuries do not appear to be severe. Some injuries may not become apparent until hours or even days after the accident, and prompt medical care can help prevent complications and ensure the best possible outcome for recovery.

We Pursue Boat Accident Injuries

Anderson Franco Law can help you recover money for your boating injuries. We understand the regulations and laws related to boating accidents. We will work to investigate the accident and ensure we have all the information to get you maximum results. Reach out for a free no obligation consultation.