Boat accidents and fatalities fell significantly from 804 in 2007 to 588 in 2016. This can be attribute in part to a drop in the number of boats registered during that period, but other factors contributed to this decline.
In California, a boating accident attorney helps people involved in boat accidents get rights and financial support for losses.
New boating laws and better official surveillance have also helped. But lately, there has been a worrying new trend. The number of boating accidents has slowly climb from a low of 473 in 2012 to 588 in 2016.
Who Is at Fault for The Boat Accident?
The name of the defendant will be one of the most important things in your case. You need to name it in your claim, and this can be tricky in the case of a two or three boat accident.
By definition, you will need to determine the person responsible and the cause — you don’t need the cause for your claim, but it is helpful during the process. This is similar to the process for investigating a car accident.
Determining the cause also allows you to prepare a defense against the defendant if the defendant claims that you were partly responsible for the accident.
Below are some indicators of fault or cause for a boating accident:
- The driver was drunk
- The driver was distracted
- Inexperience in navigation
- Breach of speed limits.
- A part of the boat was not working properly
In case you are involve in boat accident, it is better to contact your nearby firm to hire a skillful boating accident attorney.
Insurance Laws in California
After you determine who is at fault in the case, the next stage is probably to consider an insurance settlement. If the case can be settle out of court, it is an option to obtain a higher settlement.
Unfortunately, having insurance is not a requirement for a bank in California, except for some public agencies. However, you are encouraged to cover your expenses in case of injuries. There is a possibility that some of the people in the accident are not insured.
When this is the case, you need to fight for your health and your expenses. Treatment for injuries is expensive, and if the driver is not insured, you must take the necessary steps to work your case.
Act quickly:Â California only offers two years to declare your damages, or the court will prohibit you from requesting a settlement.
Don’t have an idea about California boating laws? Hire a boating accident attorney to help you during legal procedures.
What to Do If You Have Been in A Boating Accident?
If you have been in a boating accident, it is important to call the boating accident attorneys immediately through no fault of your own. If you have collided with another boat, you will want to exchange insurance information in the same way as if you had an accident with another car.
The same rules apply here: Although the tendency is often to want to apologize, do not apologize or admit guilt. This gesture can be used against you and can weaken your claim.
Don’t talk to the other boater’s insurance company. They will try to give you a cash payment immediately to close the claim.
If you accept that payment – which is almost certainly inappropriate – you cannot later sue. That payment will certainly not cover your expenses, especially if you have suffered physical damage and/or injury.
The Unique Nature of a Boating Accident Claim in California
One of the most critical aspects of any boating accident is the evidence. Unlike accidents on land, some evidence can be not able to navigate at sea or, worse.
Entire ships can sink. If evidence cannot be gather, witness testimony and a chronological explanation of the accident will suffice. In addition, if there are doubts about the vessel’s condition in question, we request a copy of the vessel’s maintenance records.
Boating accidents must be report to the California Division of Boating and Waterways if any of the following occur:
- The death or disappearance of any of those involved within 48 hours after the accident
- Any injury that requires more than first aid, also within 48 hours
- Property damage of more than $ 500 to any nearby vessel and infrastructure (a dock, for example). Those involved have ten days to submit a report
The skilled boating accident attorneys can:
- Negotiate with defense boating accident attorneys and insurance companies on your behalf
- Obtain official reports and other vital documentation for your case
- Work with accident reconstruction experts
- Get you the help you need while you are going through a difficult time
Boating accident attorneys know that you can be agitate and not know how to proceed after an accident in the water. When a devastating injury occurs, whether to you or one of your passengers, they can provide everything you need to help you through these times of concern.
If you or someone you know has been the victim of a boating accident, contact the professional boating accident attorneys immediately.
They will guide you through the process and make sure you get the justice you deserve. With their expert and professional help, you can focus on getting your life back in order.
Hope this article is helpful if you involve in the boat accident case in California. It is better to hire a boating accident attorney to get your deserving rights.Â
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