If you or a loved one have suffered an injury, property damage, or other losses as a result of a watercraft collision, promptly speak with a Coconino County boating accident lawyer. An experienced personal injury lawyer in Coconino County can help you file an injury claim against the person or parties responsible for the incident. Allow The Kaiser Law Group to handle your case so you can receive the maximum compensation possible given the situation.
There are numerous reasons that boating accidents can commonly occur. Many of the reasons for a boating incident are the same as a traffic collision. Examples include a boat operator being inexperienced, ignoring watercraft traffic laws and regulations, reckless boating behaviors like speeding or operating under the influence, and unforeseen obstacles in the environment. Factors like poor weather and machine failure are also potential contributors to boating accidents.
Vessel collisions wherein one boat or watercraft hits another or something in the environment are among the most common types of boating accidents. Boat collisions can result in significant property damage as well as serious bodily injury to those involved. Another common incident entails a boat passenger falling overboard or a swimmer getting hit by a watercraft, resulting in a drowning and wrongful death.
Fires are also not uncommon in boating accidents, with damaged engines or leaking fuel causing an explosion. This can lead to serious burn injuries and even permanent scarring or disfigurement. Additionally, the waves a watercraft creates, known as a wake, can also cause unexpected accidents, especially when created in a state-designated no-wake zone.
Fortunately, Arizona’s personal injury laws allow you to pursue compensation after a boating accident. You can file a claim against the other boater or liable party in civil court. You may also be able to secure a settlement outside of court by going through the responsible party’s insurance company. You are not required to work with an injury lawyer in order to receive compensation, but it’s recommended that you do so for several reasons.
A personal injury lawyer has a deep understanding of the legal system and what’s considered a fair settlement when recovering damages. Your lawyer is there to advise you throughout the process, explaining your options and what you can reasonably expect to receive in compensation. As your legal representation, a lawyer can also advocate on your behalf, protect your rights, and prevent insurance companies from trying to take advantage of you.
Typically, a personal injury settlement includes economic and non-economic damages. The amount you can expect to receive from a settlement largely depends on the details of your case. Factors that can determine your compensation award include the amount of property damage sustained, the severity of your injuries or whether any wrongful deaths occurred, and whether you were partially responsible for the accident.
Personal injury settlements usually include economic damages such as medical bills, the cost to replace or repair damaged property, and lost wages. In a boating accident settlement, economic damages can range in scope and amount depending on the circumstances of the incident. If you were significantly injured in a boating accident, a compensation award generally covers all past and future medical costs related to the injuries caused by the accident.
Medical costs include hospital bills, doctor’s visits, surgeries, medical devices, medication, physical therapy, and necessary ongoing care. If the injuries sustained resulted in partial or full disability, time away from work, or diminished capacity to earn income, it’s likely your settlement will include compensation for lost wages and/or loss of future income.
If you have experienced a boating accident in Arizona, your first step should be to ensure your safety and that of anyone else involved in the incident. Once you verify the well-being of those affected, proceed to call local law enforcement so they can arrive at the scene right away. You can find essential boating safety and ethics recommendations from the U.S. Forest Service to help you stay prepared on the water.
If you’re physically able, you’re also advised to collect the contact information of the other parties. Be sure to consult with a personal injury lawyer before speaking to any insurance representatives.
There are multiple reasons for which a boating accident may occur. Not unlike motor vehicle traffic collisions, many boating accidents can happen due to the operator not paying attention, speeding, or controlling the boat while under the influence.
Watercraft collisions can also occur due to boater inexperience, deliberately ignoring water traffic regulations, or failing to follow navigational signals and signs. Boating accidents can also simply happen due to environmental factors, such as failing equipment and poor or severe weather conditions.
You can pursue compensation for boating injuries under Arizona’s personal accident laws. By filing a personal injury claim against the other party in civil court, you may be able to recover a significant amount of the damages incurred as a result of the boating incident.
Some examples of the losses you may be able to recover include damage to personal property, medical bills, pain and suffering, and lost wages. Your chances of a favorable outcome increase with a lawyer’s help.
Arizona personal injury laws do not require you to hire a lawyer in order to file a claim against the party responsible after a boating accident. However, it’s strongly recommended that you work with a qualified injury lawyer so you can maximize your chances of receiving a fair settlement. An experienced injury law professional can provide insightful counsel, protect your rights, and advocate on your behalf.
Whether you think your case is simple and straightforward or too complicated to pursue, the legal team at The Kaiser Law Group is here to advocate on your behalf. With years of experience and acquired legal skills, our personal injury professionals are well-equipped to handle your case. Contact us today to schedule an initial consultation with a competent injury lawyer.