Recreational boating is a popular hobby in George County. Despite its popularity, boat accidents are can be deadly. Nearly one out of five boating accidents results in fatal injuries statewide, according to the Coast Guard. Boat accidents are often severe and could cause severe damage. In addition to the injuries that come with a high-speed collision, boat accident victims also face the risk of drowning. When a boat accident occurs due to no fault of your own, you could have a strong claim for monetary compensation.
A George County boat accident lawyer could review your claim and advise you on how to maximize your financial recovery. With a skilled personal injury attorney by your side, you could obtain the compensation you need to move forward.
Identifying the cause of a boating accident is the first step a George County boat accident attorney should take. This process can be challenging, given that recovering evidence from a boat collision is far more complicated than with a vehicle crash.
Many of the factors in a boat crash are similar to those in a vehicle accident. Like with motor vehicles, alcohol often plays a role in a boat accident. Drunken boat operation does not carry the same social stigma that comes with drinking and driving. Nevertheless, it is just as dangerous.
Thrill-seeking behavior is also common with boat accidents. Recreational boaters often like to drive fast, and many fail to pay appropriate attention to the vessels around them. When operators take risks to show off the performance of their boat, they often put everyone else at risk.
Inexperience also plays a part in many boat collisions. While inexperienced is an issue for some vehicle accidents, it is a much larger factor for boating collisions. The requirements to operate a boat are lax, especially when compared to those required to drive a car. While boat operators must take a safety course, it is brief and can be completed online. Additionally, even young children can operate a boat as long as someone at least 21 years of age is supervising them. Given the recreational nature of weekend boating, there are a large number of inexperienced boaters on the water at any given time.
While understanding the factors of a boat crash are important, many boating accidents involve more than one. In some cases, the injury victim could also bear some of the responsibility of a crash.
State law addresses this situation using a system known as pure comparative negligence. Under pure comparative negligence, an injured person may seek a claim for damages even if they are partially at fault. However, that does not mean they will receive compensation for the entire amount of their damages.
Under this system, a jury will reduce any damage award by an amount equal to the plaintiff’s degree of fault. A plaintiff’s degree of fault is often a primary issue at trial. A seasoned George County boat accident attorney could collect evidence to prove the defendant’s negligence in court.
Boating is rewarding in many ways, but it is not without its risks. If you have suffered an injury due to a boating accident, you have the right to seek compensation from the at-fault party.
The courts should not bar you from recovering compensation if you were partially responsible. However, contacting a George County boat accident lawyer could help you get the most out of your claim. Call today to schedule a consultation.