Boating is a great way to enjoy a beautiful day on the water. Unfortunately, boating accidents can happen, and the damage they cause can be immense. Learning about the common causes of boating accidents in Piscataway could help you determine whether you have a claim if you were injured due to another person’s negligence.
At Fredson Statmore Bitterman, LLC, our talented boat accident attorneys have the knowledge and experience to guide you through the legal process and recover the compensation you need to recover. Schedule a free consultation to learn more.
Risk Factors
Boating is generally a relaxing and carefree recreational activity. The sailor of the boat, however, accepts the same safety responsibilities as every motorist and boat operator in the state and has a duty of care toward their passengers. This means that the person piloting the boat is legally responsible for any accidents caused by their carelessness.
There are a range of factors that make boating accidents potentially very serious. First, being on the water means a risk of drowning, and boat operators must follow all waterway safety procedures, ensure their boat is well-maintained, and provide adequate safety gear for their passengers to ensure safe sailing.
Second, boats do not have the same safety devices to protect you from the impact of an accident that other vehicles do, such as the protective shell of a car’s body, as well as its seatbelts and airbags.
A boating accident attorney can help you understand the common reasons for injury and whether you have a legal claim in Piscataway.
Common Causes of Boating Accidents
While every boating accident claim has a unique set of circumstances, most are caused by operator negligence.
Distracted Boating
Waterways are less well-regulated than roads. Carefully focused attention is vital for safely navigating the water, and any form of distraction can prove extremely dangerous.
Boating While Intoxicated
Consuming alcohol can lead to the loss of physical coordination, impaired judgment, difficulty concentrating and making decisions, lowered inhibitions, and increased impulsivity. State law, therefore, forbids operating a vessel when impaired by alcohol or drugs, as it is just as dangerous as driving a car while drunk.
Excess Speed
Excess speed on the water diminishes the operator’s reaction time in the face of any dangers that arise and is often the cause of boating crashes in Piscataway. Boat operators are expected to sail their boats at safe speeds appropriate to the conditions. For example, there are certain areas where slower speeds that cause no wake are required to avoid endangering the safety of others, and speed must be reduced in proximity to beaches where people swim.
Your Boating Accident Claim
You can seek compensation for your physical, financial, and emotional losses in a boating accident claim if you were injured by an operator’s negligence. These legal damages include:
- Medical expenses, including current and ongoing costs
- Lost income and diminished earning power
- Property damage
- Your physical and emotional pain and suffering
- Permanent disfigurement or disabilities
- Wrongful death
A seasoned attorney can help ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
Explore Common Reasons for Boating Crashes With an Experienced Piscataway Lawyer
Negligence is one of the most common causes of boating accidents in Piscataway. Seeking legal guidance is essential if you were injured in a crash due to someone else’s carelessness, and the personal injury attorneys at Fredson Statmore Bitterman, LLC will dedicate their efforts to obtaining an optimal outcome on your behalf. Learn more about how we can help by contacting us online or calling us today to schedule a free consultation.
