While a boat can be an extremely fun source of personal and family entertainment, there are numerous dangers associated with boating. Individuals who find themselves the victims of a boating accident are in an especially risky position, as such accidents often occur in the middle of a body of water, far away from help. Thus, damages and injuries from boating accidents can be higher than accidents with other types of vehicles.
The boating accident attorneys of Hankey Marks & Crider are here to help you receive the compensation you deserve for any damages and / or injuries you may have suffered in a boating accident.
Types of Boating Accidents
While boats these days have numerous safety features in place to protect boaters, there are still a number of different accidents that can take place on the water. In fact, even if you are acting safely and your boat is performing ideally, other boaters who are behaving irresponsibly can put you and your boat at risk. Examples of various accidents or problems that might occur include:
The boating accident lawyers of Hankey Marks & Crider are here to represent you in any of these, or other, boating accidents.
Boating Safety Guidelines
Boating accidents are often avoidable, as long as boat operators follow a few simple guidelines. While boating you should abide by the following safety guidelines:
- Do not mix alcohol and boating. Alcohol impairs your judgment and reaction time and sharply increases your chances of having a fatal accident.
- Do not let an inexperienced boat operator run the boat without close supervision. Typically anyone under 16 should not operate a boat or other watercraft.
- Give all other watercraft plenty of clearance.
- Do not run your boat at excessive speeds that will make it difficult to slow down suddenly if need be.
Avoid Reckless Boaters
If you see someone operating their boat in an unsafe way, keep a clear distance. Trying to approach the boat or yell at those on board may only provoke more reckless behavior. Write down the boat identification if possible and report it to the local police immediately. They will send a marine unit to investigate the situation.
A boating accident can leave you and those you love with lasting injuries. If you have been injured in a boating accident, consult with a personal injury lawyer immediately. A good lawyer will fight for your right to compensation for medical bills, boat damage, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Getting What You Deserve
If you are injured in a boating accident that was not your fault, you should not have to pay for your damages and injuries alone. It is important that you bring irresponsible boaters or the companies responsible for defective and faulty products to justice.
Contact Us
If you or someone you know has been involved in a boating accident, contact the Indianapolis boating accident attorneys of Hankey Marks & Crider today by calling (317) 634-8565 to discuss your legal rights and options.