Boat Accident Lawyer in Huntsville
Boat Accident Lawyers in Huntsville, AL
Boating is a popular activity here in Alabama – unfortunately, boating leads to numerous deaths and injuries each year. According to the United States Coast Guard, there were 3,844 accidents in 2023. These accidents caused 564 deaths, 2,126 injuries, and $63 million in property damage. When a boater or passenger experiences injury from another party’s negligence, he or she may be able to file a claim and collect compensation for any damages that result. If you or a loved one recently suffered harm in a boating accident and believe someone else may be responsible, get in contact with a Huntsville boat accident lawyer at Conchin, Cole, Jordan & Sherrod.
What Are the Alabama Boating Laws?
Like many states, Alabama has unique boating laws that all passengers and operators of watercraft must follow. Some of the most relevant include:
- No one under the age of 12 may operate a vessel. Those over the age of 12 who want to operate a watercraft must take a boater safety education course approved by the state of Alabama.
- It is unlawful to operate a watercraft while under the influence of alcohol or any other drug, recreational or prescription.
- Boaters must follow all rules and regulations regarding wake zones and other posted signage.
In general, boat operators must use reasonable care while using their vehicles. Failure to do so could make them civilly liable for any damages that result.
Common Causes of Boat Accidents
Boating accidents can occur in many ways, but some are more common than others. Some accidents that give rise to injury and property damage include:
Negligent Operation – Many boating accidents result from negligent operation by a driver. This may be from driving too fast for weather conditions, collision with a submerged object, or even collision with another boater. This can lead to extensive property damage, injuries, and even death.
Operator Inexperience – Alabama’s boating laws allow anyone over the age of 14 to operate a boating vessel without supervision from an older adult. As a result, many inexperienced boaters might not know how to avoid a collision or other accidents on the water.
Bad Weather – The weather can turn in a few minutes here in Alabama. Sudden high winds or heavy rain can create dangerous situations for boaters.
Equipment Failure – A boat may malfunction due to defective manufacturing or a lack of proper maintenance. These scenarios can warrant a personal injury claim if the malfunction causes economic or non-economic harm.
What Do I Need For a Boating Accident Injury Claim?
To collect compensation from a boating accident, the following must apply:
- The defendant owed a duty of care to the victim.
- He or she violated this duty of care by committing negligence.
- This negligence was the direct cause of the victim’s injuries.
- The victim suffered economic or non-economic harms as a result.
A boating accident claim can compensate for medical bills, lost wages, property damages, and even intangible damages such as emotional pain or suffering. When a person is negligent, he or she can be responsible for any damages suffered.
Get Compensation You Deserve With Our Boat Accident Attorneys in Huntsville, AL
Boating can be a great escape from the Alabama heat. Unfortunately, people sustain serious injuries on boats each year. If you or a loved one recently suffered harm in a boating accident, you may be eligible to file a claim to compensate for your injuries, pain, and suffering. Contact the Huntsville boat accident lawyers at Conchin, Cole, Jordan & Sherrod for a free initial consultation and learn more about your legal options.
Why Choose Us?
Professional – Our team has over 150 years of combined experience serving the Huntsville area and all of North Alabama.
Trusted – Our personal injury attorneys in Huntsville have recovered over $140 million in damages for clients, including victims of boat accidents.
Contingency Fee – You won’t pay us unless we win.
Compassionate – Our Huntsville boat accident attorneys are very familiar with the physical and emotional pain caused by accidents. It’s our top priority to ensure you get the most out of a bad situation.