Cleveland Boat Accident Lawyer

Name: Ohio Personal Injury Lawyers - Joseph Law Group, LLC
Brand: Joseph Law Group
Rating: 4.8 (101 reviews)

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Joseph T. Joseph, Jr.

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“The Joseph Law Group and it’s staff were knowledgeable and courteous while handling my case. They stayed in touch with me to see if everything was alright. I highly recommend my family and friends to utilize their services.”
Robert Lawson

Knowledgeable & Compassionate Representation For Boating Accident Victims

If you or someone you love sustained a serious injury on the water due to the fault of another, you are entitled to seek compensation through a boat accident injury claim. Contact our experienced Cleveland boat accident lawyer at Joseph Law Group by calling (216) 522-1600. We handle every case with focus and genuine empathy for our clients, because we know what you’re going through is not easy. Don’t do it alone. Schedule a free consultation to learn more about your legal rights and options.

What Causes Most Boat Collisions?

According to the latest statistics provided by the United States Coast Guard, approximately 4,439 recreational boating accidents occurred in the United States in 2021, resulting in 2,641 injuries, 658 deaths, and approximately $67.5 million dollars in property damage.

Boat crashes can lead to absolutely devastating consequences, including serious, permanent injury or even death. Most recreational boating accidents are a result of collisions; whether that’s a boat-on-boat collision, boat-on-person collision, or a boat colliding with submerged objects or other types of property (dock, pier, bridge, etc.). Some of the most common causes of these kinds of collisions include:

Boat Operator Inattention

Boat operators have a duty to those on their vessel as well as others in the water to operate the boat safely and in accordance with all boating laws and regulations. This includes paying attention to the path in front of and all around them, as well as paying attention to the safety and wellbeing of others who may be aboard the boat.

Operating Under The Influence

Bodies of water have laws in place just like roadways, meaning operating a boat under the influence of drugs or alcohol is prohibited. Unfortunately, many people disregard these laws and decide to drive a boat while impaired, often leading to disastrous results.

Excessive Speed

Perhaps one of the most common causes of boating accidents is due to excessive speeding. According to Ohio’s boating laws, no person should operate a boat “at a rate of speed or in a manner so as to endanger any person, vessel, or property.” Failure to do so can result in accidents such as passengers or boat equipment being thrown off into the water, the operator losing control of the boat, and/or the inability to stop or avoid collisions, to name a few.

Reckless Operation by Other Boaters

Just as it is important that your own boat operator obeys boating laws and ensures safe boating practices, other boaters on the water owe the same duty of care. Negligent operation of a boat, including speeding, jumping waves, driving too close to other boaters, and other acts of negligence can lead to a devastating maritime accident.

Equipment Failure

Just like cars, boats are complex pieces of machinery that require regular maintenance to remain working in prime condition. Failure to do so could lead to an integral part of the boat’s operation malfunctioning. In other cases, the boat may have been defective to begin with due to poor design or construction.

Hazardous Conditions

Hazardous conditions can refer to anything from poor weather to rough, bumpy water or even improper loading/overcrowding on a boat. When boat operators, owners, and passengers do not obey boating laws and safety regulations, serious and catastrophic injuries may occur.

Common Boating Injuries

Boat accidents can be extremely traumatic for anyone involved, often leading to severe injuries and years of necessary medical care. Some of the more common types of boating-related injuries we see include:

Do I Have A Boating Accident Lawsuit?

If you are involved in a boating accident and suffered injuries as a result, you can (and should) file an insurance claim against the negligent party, whether that’s the boat operator, owner, or even manufacturer.

Unfortunately, the negligent party’s insurance company will more than likely lowball your settlement offer or even potentially deny liability on their client’s behalf. That is why it is incredibly important that you obtain the help of an experienced Cleveland personal injury attorney for your boating accident case.

When you equip the help of a legal team like the Joseph Law Group for your claim, your attorney will ensure the appropriate party (or multiple parties) is held liable for the injuries you sustained and their resulting damages, including medical bills, lost income, and more. If a settlement cannot be reached through negotiations, we are prepared to file a lawsuit against the responsible party, take the legal battle to trial, and fight for maximum compensation on your behalf.

Damages We Can Recover On Your Behalf

When you or someone you love suffers injuries from the negligence of another in a Cleveland boat accident, our experienced boat accident lawyers at Joseph Law Group will fight to make sure you recover every penny you deserve. The financial damages you may be entitled to can include (but are not limited to):

Medical Expenses
Lost Wages
Lost Earning Capacity
Property Damage
Disfigurement
Pain and Suffering
And More

In cases of fatal boating accidents, our Cleveland wrongful death lawyer from our firm is prepared to help guide grieving family members through the process of filing a wrongful death lawsuit against the negligent party.

7 Steps To Take Right After A Boat Accident

Being involved in a boat accident can be disorienting, especially if there are injuries or property damage. Knowing what steps to take immediately can make a big difference in how things play out afterward. At Joseph Law Group, LLC, our Cleveland boat accident lawyer helped many clients after water-related accidents and understand what actions matter most.

Here’s a clear breakdown of what we recommend if you’re involved in a boating accident.

1. Check For Injuries

Start by checking yourself and others for any signs of injury. If someone needs medical help, call emergency services right away or use a marine radio if out of cell range. Safety is the priority before doing anything else. Even minor injuries should be noted, as symptoms can develop later. It is also important to get your injuries documented for your legal case.

2. Get To A Safe Location

If the boat is in a hazardous spot — such as near a dam, rocks, or another vessel — move to a safer location if possible. Anchor the boat if needed to prevent drifting. Staying in a stable, secure area allows for a clearer response and prevents additional harm.

3. Call Authorities

Report the incident to the U.S. Coast Guard or local marine patrol. In most cases, any boat accident that results in injury, death, or significant property damage must be reported. Provide accurate information, but avoid making assumptions or admitting fault at this stage. Once again, this kind of documented report can be helpful, but only share the facts of the accident and not how you feel.

4. Exchange Information

Just like a car accident, you’ll want to exchange names, contact details, vessel identification, and insurance information with all involved parties. If there are witnesses, ask for their names and phone numbers as well. This information will be important if you later speak to a Cleveland boat accident lawyer

5. Document The Scene

Take photos of the boats, any damage, visible injuries, and the surrounding area. Make notes on the weather, water conditions, and how the accident occurred while everything is fresh. These details help clarify what happened and are helpful when reviewing the case later. Videos are also very helpful here.

6. Seek Medical Attention

Even if you feel okay, it’s still a good idea to get checked by a medical professional. Some injuries, such as concussions or internal trauma, may not be immediately obvious. A medical record also creates a timeline that can support a claim if you choose to work with a boat lawyer.

7. Talk To A Legal Professional

Once everyone is safe and you’ve addressed immediate needs, it’s time to consider your legal options. A Cleveland boat accident lawyer can help determine whether someone else’s actions caused the accident and what steps you can take next. Boat accidents often involve issues like insurance disputes, property damage, and injury claims. Getting clear guidance from someone who has handled these situations can make the process more manageable.

At Joseph Law Group, LLC, we’re proud to have been rated by Super Lawyers and named among America’s Top 100 Personal Injury Attorneys. If you’ve been involved in a boat accident and need guidance on what to do next, our team is ready to help. Reach out to discuss your situation and get support moving forward.

Cleveland Boat Accident Faqs

When a boating accident happens, the next steps can feel unclear. Whether you’re operating a boat, riding as a passenger, or simply enjoying the water, accidents can result in serious injuries, property damage, or even long-term consequences. Boating incidents may involve private vessels, commercial watercraft, or even rental equipment. In any of these cases, it’s important to know your rights and what steps to take. Below, our Cleveland boat accident lawyer answers common voice search questions people ask following a boat accident, especially those related to legal options and responsibilities.

Is It Necessary To Report A Minor Boat Accident To The Authorities?

Yes, even a minor boat accident may need to be reported. In Ohio, you’re required to file a boating accident report if the incident involves injury beyond first aid, death, disappearance, or property damage exceeding a certain amount. Even if you’re unsure whether the damage or injury qualifies, it’s better to report the incident. This can protect your legal rights and create a formal record. If legal action becomes necessary later, having documentation is key. A boat lawyer can help review the report to make sure it’s complete and accurate.

How Do I Handle Insurance Companies After A Boat Accident?

When speaking with an insurance company, it’s best to provide basic facts without guessing or making assumptions. Stick to the facts, avoid admitting fault, and don’t sign anything until you’ve had time to review the paperwork. Insurance companies often move quickly after a boating accident, but their goals may not line up with yours. Before agreeing to a settlement, we recommend talking with a lawyer to understand whether the offer fairly covers your injuries and property damage. It is also best to let your lawyer do all the talking to an insurance agent to protect your interests.

Are There Specific Laws Protecting Boaters On The Water?

Yes, both federal and state laws apply to recreational and commercial boating. These include rules about safe speed, right-of-way, operator sobriety, required safety gear, and proper lighting. If another boater violated these laws and caused an accident, that could be a factor in determining liability. Even in cases where the details are not clear, a lawyer can help investigate what laws may apply. Cleveland boat accident lawyers are familiar with the regulations in this area and can help clarify your legal position.

What Should I Do If I Was Injured As A Passenger In A Boat Accident?

If you were a passenger and suffered an injury, you may be entitled to recover damages from the person or company responsible for the boat. This could be the operator of your boat or another party involved in the collision. Start by seeking medical care and documenting your injuries. Then, collect contact information for all parties and witnesses. It’s also helpful to take photos of the scene. Videos can also be extremely helpful to showcase damages that happened.

Can I Claim For Damage To My Boat And Equipment?

Yes, if your boat or personal equipment was damaged due to another person’s actions, you may have a valid claim for repair or replacement. These types of claims can include everything from electronics and fishing gear to the vessel itself. Keep receipts, repair estimates, and photos of the damage. It’s also useful to obtain a marine survey if the damage is significant. Claims for property loss often require detailed documentation, and a lawyer can help gather what you need to build a strong case. This is also where information such as a police report can be helpful in establishing damages.

Boating accidents can raise a lot of questions, especially when injuries or property loss are involved. If you’re unsure where to turn after an incident on the water, Joseph Law Group, LLC is here to help. We’ve been rated by Super Lawyers and named among America’s Top 100 Personal Injury Attorneys. If you’re dealing with the effects of a boat accident, speak with Cleveland boat accident lawyers who know what steps to take. Reach out today to learn how we can assist with your case.

Call For A Free Consultation

If a boating incident caused by another’s negligence left you or someone you love with serious injuries, you have legal options available. Our Ohio personal injury lawyers have handled several claims involving Cleveland boating accidents and injuries, and we can handle yours too. We are prepared to initiate a thorough investigation into the case, gather evidence against the negligent party, and help guide you through the legal process, all while fighting for maximum compensation for you and your family.

For a free initial consultation with one of our dedicated Cleveland boat accident attorneys here at Joseph Law Group, give us a call at (216) 522-1600 to get started today.

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Eliminate Your Worry & Ease Your Mind

The insurance industry is built on the avoidance of making any payments on claims. They see claims as liabilities, and initially deny, defend, and delay a claim to limit that liability and save money for the company. Ultimately, it is the job of the attorneys at Joseph Law Group to advocate on behalf of our clients and to give the insurance companies and adjusters enough reason to pay an amount of money that is fair under all circumstances. When you hire Joseph Law Group to represent your claim, you are getting a full-service team of dedicated attorneys and paralegals who will be committed to pursuing the best outcome for you from day one until trial.
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