How to File a Boat Accident Claim

Boating is often fun and exciting, but it can quickly turn deadly if not careful. Boats must also follow strict safety regulations to prevent injuries.

If you've suffered injury in an accident while on the boat, you could be eligible for compensation for medical expenses as well as property damage. Contact a New York boat accident lawyer to increase your odds of winning.

1. Gather Evidence

If you are involved in an accident while boating, the most important step is to collect evidence and speak with an attorney. It is also important to seek medical attention immediately for any injuries that might have occurred. Medical documents and other evidence are needed to support an action for damages such as current and future medical costs in addition to loss of income earning potential, property damage, and other non-economic damages such as pain and suffering.

Videos and photos can be used to preserve physical evidence from the scene of a boating accident. Eyewitness testimony can be a valuable evidence source since it provides details about the incident that could otherwise remain unnoticed. Police and incident reports can be used to establish a timeline of events that occurred in the particular case.

A lawyer who is experienced is able to review the evidence and determine which parties may be responsible for the victim's injuries or losses. A successful negligence claim for a boating accident typically involves multiple parties that are liable, which includes the boat's operator and the manufacturer or owner of the watercraft.

A reputable attorney can manage all communications between victims and insurance providers involved in the claim for compensation of the victim. A lawyer can assist victims not say anything that could be used against them in a court of law, and can also aid victims in obtaining fair settlement offers for damages.

2. Report a crime

In the event of a boating crash the first thing you must do is make sure that everyone involved is secure. Then, you should call local law enforcement and complete a report on the incident. Based on the state's laws and regulations, you may have up to 48 hours in which to file an official report if the incident results in death or injury which requires medical treatment above basic first aid. Alternatively, you may have 10 days to file a report in the event that the accident causes more than $2,000 in damage or if the boat accident lawyer is destroyed.

You should also remain at the scene of the accident to assist other boats or people if possible, without putting your safety or that of the victims. This will allow the police officer to keep track of crucial details such as how the accident occurred and who was on board at the time of the collision and the reason for it.

Even well-trained and experienced boaters could be involved in an accident on the water because of someone else's negligence. A knowledgeable attorney can determine the responsible party for your injuries, and assist you pursue compensation. Damages that can be recovered typically include medical expenses, property damage and financial losses. Additionally, bringing an action against the responsible party could lead to monetary recovery for your pain and suffering, loss of quality of life and other emotional distresses associated with the crash.

3. Examine the damage

After medical professionals have examined all injuries and ensured that everyone is in a safe location, it is important to look at the damage to the boat. You must now begin thinking about your insurance policy.

A surveyor will be assigned to your claim. They will come out to examine the damage caused by the accident. He or she will compare what you originally reported with the damage and boat accident lawyer begin to calculate the value of the damage.

Most boat accidents are the result of a mix of factors and it's not always possible to control all of them. If there was a defect in the boat, you may be in a position to file a claim for product responsibility against the company that created the boat.

In these instances, you need an attorney with experience in boating claims. They can create a strong case to prove that the manufacturer is responsible for the accident.

It is important to remember that different types of boats are covered by insurance policies differently. Homeowners insurance, for instance typically only covers small boats with engines less than 50 HP. The homeowner's insurance policy does not cover jet skis, larger vessels or airboats.

4. Contact an attorney

When you are safe and have seen a medical professional for injuries, ensure that you inform your insurance company. You'll likely need to do so even if no police report is filed. It is crucial to be careful with your information since insurance companies are often trying to attempt to determine who is responsible for the accident. This can reduce the amount of compensation you are granted. The NYC lawyers for boating accidents at Mirman, Markovits & Landau will work hard to disprove these claims and reduce the amount of fault given to you.

If you are able you, it's a good idea to gather information about the other boat operators or owners involved in the accident. This includes their address, name telephone number, and insurance details. It is also useful to keep a copy of the accident report filed.

Boat accidents can be scary and can result in serious injuries. They can result in massive medical expenses, loss of wages, and even damages. The responsible parties must be held accountable for any harm they have caused. The at-fault parties as well as insurance companies will not offer you the compensation you're entitled to and it is therefore essential to consult a seasoned New York injury attorney as early as you can. This will allow you to focus on gaining more and level the playing field.