Boating accidents can be devastating, both for those involved and their loved ones. Accidents can happen even to experienced boaters, so it’s crucial to also have a plan in case of an emergency.
If you or a loved one has been the victim of a boating accident, you need the support of a boat accident attorney to help you with rebuilding your life.
Who Can Be Held Liable in a Boating Accident Claim?
If you’ve been the victim of a boating accident, there are a few parties who may be liable for your damages. Your boating accident claim attorney will make sure they file a suit against every party liable for your injuries:
- Boat operator
- Other passengers
- Owner of the boat
- The rental company
- The manufacturer of the boat
What Compensation Is Available After a Boating Accident?
Property Damage
If you suffered property damage due to a McAllen boating accident, you may be eligible for compensation to repair or replace lost property.
Lost Wages
If you were injured in a boating accident and have lost out on income because of being unable to work, you may be able to secure compensation for these losses.
Medical Expenses
You can have certain medical bills covered if you choose to file a boating accident claim. Don’t end up in debt because of someone else’s negligence.
Pain and Suffering
The physical and mental pain you experience due to your boating accident can also net you compensation.
Reduced Quality of Life
A boating accident can negatively affect your quality of life to the point you struggle to enjoy the daily activities you once did. If this sounds familiar, you may be able to get compensated for this reduced quality of life.
Punitive Damages
Punitive damages are designed to punish those who have harmed others. This tends to be applied as a multiplier after all of the damages are tallied up.
Our team is ready to listen and does not back down. We are here to serve you and help alleviate your troubles. Call us today!
956-682-3939Trust the Compassionate Boating Accident Attorneys at Villalobos Law Firm
If you’ve suffered from a boating accident injury in McAllen, it’s important to know that you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. Our team of attorneys is here to support you, answer any questions you may have, and fight for your rights as if you were a member of our own family.
With our experience and compassion, we’ll work hard to ensure that you receive the outcome your case deserves. You’ll never feel like just a case number when you choose to work with Villalobos Law Firm.
Boating Accidents by the Numbers
2020 saw a 30-year high in boating accidents in Texas
Most boating accidents and fatalities occur between May and August
70% of boating accidents happened on personal watercraft and motorboats in 2020
The Laws Governing Boating Accidents in Texas
There are a few laws that cover boating, both on the federal and state level. Here are the ones you need to know:
Navigable Waters
Navigable waters are bodies of water used to transport goods and people. Federal laws only apply to navigable waters.
Texas Parks and Wildlife Code
The Texas Parks and Wildlife Code governs non-navigable waters and bodies of water used for recreation. This law covers ownership of vessels, required accident reports, the duties of boat operators, and what education courses are required.
Death on the High Seas Act
The Death on the High Seas Act allows families to make a wrongful death claim if a loved one died in international waters due to negligence. This generally applies to navigable waters.
The Division of Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act
This law allows maritime workers to obtain compensation if they are injured in navigable waters. This is much like other workers’ compensation in that it covers bills and rehabilitation.
How To Pick a Boating Accident Attorney
You need the right boating accident lawyer on your side if you want to secure the compensation you deserve. Here’s how to find someone you can trust:
- Get referrals
- Ask about experience
- Find someone with a solid success rate
- Discuss payment
- Request a consultation