How to File a Boat Accident Claim

Boating is often fun and thrilling, but it can quickly turn deadly if not careful. Boats must adhere to strict safety guidelines to avoid injuries.

If you've been injured in a boating incident, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical expenses and for property damage. To increase your chances of success seek out a skilled New York Boat accident attorney (vimeo.com).

1. Gather Evidence

The most important thing to do following an accident with a boat is to gather evidence and then contact an attorney. It is also crucial to seek medical attention right away in the event of any injuries that could have occurred. Medical records and other evidence is needed to prove an action for damages such as future and present medical expenses and loss of income or earning potential, property damage and other non-economic damages such as pain and suffering.

Video and photos are valuable in preserving physical evidence at the scene of an accident. Eyewitness testimony is a crucial element of evidence, as it can provide valuable details about the cause of a collision that might otherwise be omitted. Police and incident reports can also be used to establish a chronology of what transpired in the case.

A lawyer with experience is able to review the evidence and determine which parties may be liable for the victim's injuries or losses. A successful negligence case for an accident involving a boat usually involves multiple liable parties including the boat's operator as well as the owner or manufacturer of the watercraft.

A reputable lawyer can handle all communication with insurance companies that will be involved in a claim of a victim for compensation. A lawyer can assist victims not say anything that could be used against them in the court of law, and can help victims obtain fair settlement offers for damages.

2. Report a problem

The first thing you should do after a boating incident is to make sure everyone is safe. You should then call the local police department and file a report. According to the laws of the state and regulations, you might only have 48 hours to make an official report in the event of serious injury or death that requires medical treatment beyond basic first aid. You could also be granted 10 days to file a report if you are incapable of finding the boat or if the incident causes more than $2,000 of damage.

If possible, you should be at the scene to assist other boats or individuals without placing your safety or that of the victims in danger. This will enable the police officer to keep track of crucial details like how the accident occurred, who was onboard at the time of the collision, and what caused it.

However, even the most well-trained and experienced boaters can be involved in accidents on the water because of the negligence of someone else. A knowledgeable attorney can help you identify the negligent party responsible for your injuries and seek compensation. Damages that can be recovered typically include medical expenses, property damage, and financial losses. A lawsuit against the responsible party could also result in monetary compensation for your discomfort and pain, loss of quality life, and emotional trauma that is caused by the accident.

3. Examine the damages

After medical professionals have examined the injuries of everyone, and they are all in a safe place, it is important to take a careful look at the damage done to the boat. This is when you begin contemplating your insurance policy and what it will cover.

A surveyor will be assigned to your claim and will go out to examine the damage caused by the accident. The surveyor will evaluate what you initially reported to the damage, and then begin to determine the value of the damages.

Most boat accidents are caused by a combination of causes which means it's not always possible to control all of them. If there was a defect in the boat, you could be in a position to file a claim for product responsibility against the company that made the boat.

In these cases you will require a lawyer with experience in boating claims. They can put together an argument that can prove the manufacturer is responsible for the accident.

It is important to remember that different types of boats are covered in different ways by insurance policies. For example homeowners insurance will usually only cover smaller boats with an engine that is less than 50 HP. Homeowner's insurance will not cover jet skis, larger vessels, or airboats.

4. Contact an attorney

Inform your insurance company as soon as you feel secure and have been to an emergency room for boat accident attorney any injuries. You'll likely have to notify them even in the absence of a police report filed. Be cautious when providing details to insurance companies, as they may try to determine who is responsible for an accident. This can reduce the amount of compensation you are given. The NYC boating accident attorneys at Mirman, Markovits & Landau will be determined to prove these claims and reduce the amount of fault attributable to you.

If you're able, it is a good idea to gather information on the other boat owners or operators who were involved in the crash. This includes their address, name along with their phone number and insurance details. It is also helpful to have a copy the accident report that has been filed.

Boat accidents can be frightening and cause serious injury. They can lead to massive medical expenses, loss of wages, and even damages. The parties responsible for the injury must be held accountable for any harm they have caused. You won't be able to receive the amount you are due if you don't consult an experienced New York injury lawyer as quickly as is possible. This will allow you to concentrate on improving and leveling the playing field.