How to File a Boat Accident Claim

Boating can be exciting and enjoyable, however when you're not careful it can quickly turn dangerous. Boats must adhere to strict safety regulations to prevent injuries.

If you have been injured in a boating incident you could be entitled to compensation for medical expenses and for property damage. To increase your chances of success, contact a qualified New York boat accident attorney.

1. Gather Evidence

If someone is involved in a boating accident the first step is to gather evidence and get in touch with an attorney. It is also important to seek medical attention immediately in the event of any injuries that could have occurred. Medical records and boat accident attorney other evidence are necessary to support a claim for damages such as current and future medical costs in addition to loss of income earning potential, property damage and other non-economic damages such as pain and suffering.

Video and photographs can help preserve physical evidence from the scene of a boating accident. Eyewitness testimony can be an invaluable piece of evidence as it reveals details about the accident that might otherwise be overlooked. Police and incident reports can also be used to establish a chronology of what transpired in the particular case.

A knowledgeable lawyer can review the evidence and determine who are responsible for victim's injuries as well as the associated expenses. A successful negligence case for a boating accident usually involves multiple parties liable, including the boat accident attorneys operator and the manufacturer or owner of the watercraft.

A reputable attorney can handle all communication between victims and insurance providers involved in the victim's compensation claim. A lawyer can stop victims from revealing information that could be used against them in court, and they can also assist victims receive fair settlements for their losses.

2. Report a problem

The first step after a boating incident is to ensure that everyone is secure. Then, you should contact the local police department and file a formal report. Based on the state's laws and regulations, you could have up to 48 hours in which to file an incident report if the accident resulted in injury or death which requires medical treatment above basic first aid. You could also be granted 10 days to file a report if you are not able to locate the boat or if the incident causes more than $2,000 in damage.

You should also stay at the scene of the accident to assist other boats or Boat accident Attorney people, if you can, without putting at risk your safety or that of the victims. This will help the law enforcement officer note crucial details, including how the accident occurred, who was aboard at the time of crash and the reason for the crash.

Even experienced and well-trained boaters can get into accidents on the water because of someone else's negligence. A skilled attorney can identify the negligent party responsible for your injuries, and assist you pursue compensation. Damages that can be recovered typically include medical expenses, property damage and financial losses. A lawsuit against the responsible party may also result in monetary compensation for your pain and discomfort and loss of quality of life, and emotional stress due to the incident.

3. Examine the damage

Once medical professionals have checked everyone's injuries and they are in a safe place It is essential to look at the damage to the boat. Now is the time to start thinking about your insurance policy.

A surveyor will be assigned to your claim and will come out to inspect the damage caused by the accident. The surveyor will then compare what you originally reported to the damage, and then begin to determine the value of the damages.

It is impossible to control every aspect that can cause a boat crash. If there was a defect by the manufacturer in the vessel itself it is possible to pursue a product liability claim against the manufacturer of the boat.

In these instances you require a lawyer with experience in boating claims. They can help you build a strong case that proves the manufacturer was responsible for the accident.

It is important to remember that different types are insured by different policies. For instance, homeowner's insurance, which covers home owners typically covers small boats with engines less than 50 HP. Insurance for homeowners does not cover jet skis, larger vessels or airboats.

4. Contact an attorney

Notify your insurance company whenever you feel safe and have been to the doctor for any injuries. Even if there's no police report, you'll still have to inform your insurance company. Be cautious when providing details to insurance companies, since they often attempt to assign blame for an accident. This could limit the amount of compensation given. The NYC lawyer for boating accidents at Mirman Markovits & Landau work hard to challenge and limit these claims.

If you can, it is a good idea to gather information about the other boat accident law firms owners or operators involved in the accident. Included in this data are their names, addresses and phone number, as well as any insurance information. It is also beneficial to have a copy the accident report that has been filed.

Boat accidents can be scary and can result in serious injuries. They can result in significant medical expenses, lost wages and other damage. The responsible parties should be held accountable for any harm they may have caused. You won't be able to receive the amount you are due if you don't speak with an experienced New York injury lawyer as early as you can. This will help even the playing field and allow you to focus on healing.