Youngstown, OH Boating Accident Lawyer Supporting Families After A Maritime Injury
Spending time on the local rivers and lakes, like Mahoning River, Berlin Lake, and Lake Milton State Park, is a popular pastime for many people in Youngstown. But, whether you’re on the rivers and lakes for work or play, the danger of a serious maritime accident remains the same. Drowning and near-drowning or suffering blunt force trauma after a fall or being hit by unsecured equipment can cause a brain injury from which the victim may never recover. Electrocution, lacerations and painful rope burns, and broken bones or soft tissue damage from a fall are other common boating injuries. Contact our Youngstown, OH boating accident lawyer for advice if you have been hurt in a maritime accident.
At Joseph Law Group, LLC, we handle complex boating accident claims and have a strong track record of success. We have represented both people injured at work and those who were out on the water for a day of fun. We offer a free legal consultation, so please call or email us today to schedule yours.
Skilled Attorneys Helping You Rebuild Your Life After A Boat Accident
If your boat accident was due to the negligence of another party, then you have the right, under Ohio law, to file a suit for damages against them. Our legal team can help you achieve a satisfactory result. We have a long history of successful boat accident settlements, fighting for people who were hurt because their employer failed to keep the workplace safe or a boat owner or operator failed to take the right steps to ensure their safety. Negligence is the cause of almost all boating accidents, whether it was due to cutting corners with the safety and maintenance of the boat, operator inexperience, operating the boat under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or a failure to recognize common hazards on the water.
No matter how powerful the defendant is, we can develop a strong case against them. Our firm uses investigators to collect the evidence we need for a strong claim and base our arguments on fine points of Ohio personal injury law and caselaw precedent. Your claim is in good hands with our attorneys, and we’re committed to securing the highest possible settlement to cover your out-of-pocket expenses and other losses.
Your Legal Rights After A Boat Accident
Many boat accident injuries could have been avoided had one party not breached their duty of care for the safety of another. The crux of boating personal injury claims is proving negligence, and our attorneys do this by collecting evidence and witness testimony to prove fault on the defendant’s part.
You have the right to expect that the watercraft you’re on is kept in good working condition and that the person operating it knows how to operate the boat and is not under the influence of alcohol or drugs, which could impair their reactions. You also have the right to demand fair compensation if you are hurt because of someone else’s negligence. However, some defendants can prove to be tough opponents, like the owner of a boat rental marina or a commercial vessel. As you’re trying to recover after painful boat accident injuries, handling the legal matters necessary to move your claim forward can feel overwhelming.
That’s where our Youngstown boating accident lawyer comes in. At Joseph Law Group, LLC, we advocate for people like you who were injured in boating accidents they didn’t cause. We invite you to contact us today for a free consultation.
Top Causes Of Boating Accidents
Boating can be a fun and relaxing activity, but it also comes with risks. Boating accidents happen more often than we’d like to think, and they can result in serious injuries or even death. Understanding the leading causes of these accidents can help boaters take steps to prevent them. These are some of the most common causes of boating accidents our Youngstown, OH boating accident lawyer has seen and how to prevent them.
Operator Inattention
One of the leading causes of boating accidents is operator inattention. When boaters fail to pay attention to their surroundings, accidents can happen quickly. Distractions like looking at a phone, talking to passengers, or simply not keeping an eye on other boats or hazards in the water can lead to collisions or crashes. Staying focused on the water and the boat’s operation is essential for safety. If you were in a crash because of an inattentive boat operator, our attorneys can assist with every step of filing an injury lawsuit.
Alcohol Use
Just like with driving a car, alcohol consumption while boating is a major risk factor for accidents. Alcohol impairs judgment, reaction times, and coordination, which can be dangerous when operating a boat. The combination of alcohol and the open water increases the likelihood of accidents, especially when conditions are rough or visibility is poor. Boat operators and passengers should always avoid alcohol use while on the water.
Speeding
Speeding is another common cause of boating accidents. Driving too fast can lead to losing control of the boat or failing to avoid obstacles in the water. High speeds can also reduce the operator’s ability to respond quickly to sudden changes in conditions, such as rough water or nearby boats. It’s important to always obey posted speed limits and adjust your speed according to the water conditions.
Inexperienced Operators
Boating requires skills and knowledge. Inexperienced boat operators are more likely to make mistakes, which can lead to accidents. Whether it’s a lack of experience in handling a boat in different conditions or not understanding the rules of the water, novice boaters are at a higher risk for accidents. Taking a boating safety course and practicing boat control in calm conditions can help reduce the risk of accidents.
Weather Conditions
Unpredictable weather conditions can make boating more hazardous. Strong winds, heavy rain, or sudden storms can quickly turn a pleasant day on the water into a dangerous situation. Boaters should always check the weather forecast before heading out and be ready to head back to shore if conditions worsen. Boating in rough weather can make it harder to control the boat and increase the risk of capsizing.
Equipment Failure
Sometimes accidents happen because of mechanical failure or problems with the boat’s equipment. Engine malfunctions, faulty navigation lights, or worn-out safety equipment can lead to accidents. Regular maintenance and inspections are vital for keeping the boat in good working condition. Before hitting the water, boaters should check the boat’s equipment, including life jackets, fire extinguishers, and the engine, to make sure everything is functioning properly.
Collisions With Other Boats
Collisions between boats are one of the most common types of boating accidents. These can occur because of operator error, such as failing to yield the right of way, or simply not paying attention to other vessels on the water. It’s important to be aware of other boats and follow the proper boating rules and guidelines to avoid accidents. Our Youngstown boating accident lawyer reminds marine enthusiasts that staying at a safe distance from other boats and using proper signaling when changing course can reduce the risk of collisions.
Drowning
Drowning is one of the most tragic consequences of boating accidents. Even experienced swimmers can be at risk if they are thrown overboard in an accident or if they fall into the water unexpectedly. Wearing a life jacket is one of the simplest and most effective ways to prevent drowning in a boating accident. Boat operators should make sure that everyone on board is wearing a properly fitted life jacket at all times.
Poor Lighting Or Visibility
Accidents can happen when boaters cannot see other boats or obstacles in the water, especially during the evening or in foggy conditions. It’s important for boaters to use proper lighting, such as navigation lights, and adjust their speed to match visibility. Operating a boat in low-light conditions requires extra caution and a heightened awareness of the surroundings.
Failure To Follow Boating Laws
Finally, not following the rules and laws of boating can lead to accidents. Whether it’s ignoring speed limits, operating a boat under the influence, or not having the required safety equipment, breaking boating laws increases the likelihood of accidents. Boaters should make themselves aware of local boating laws and regulations to stay safe on the water. Like any other vehicle collision, the police should be contacted after a boating accident. Your claim will likely go through the other boater’s insurance, and it is best to contact our lawyer before speaking with an insurance adjuster.
Staying Safe On The Water
Boating accidents can often be avoided by staying informed and prepared. Paying attention to surroundings, avoiding alcohol, controlling speed, and understanding weather conditions can go a long way in preventing accidents. Proper maintenance of your boat and being aware of other boats on the water are essential for a safe boating experience. By understanding the common causes of boating accidents, you can enjoy your time on the water safely. If you have been harmed in a boating accident our Youngstown boating accident lawyer can help explain your legal options for pursuing compensation. At Joseph Law Group, our sole focus is personal injury law. With decades of experience, we have skills necessary to deliver a positive outcome in your case. Get started by calling our office now to schedule a free consultation.
