Recreational boating accidents are, unfortunately, very common in the summer. In the United States alone, 613 people died as a result of boating accidents and 2,559 people were injured in 2019. After a boating accident, you may be confused about the steps you need to take. Whether you were injured as a passenger on a boat, or your boat, jetski or other watercraft was struck by another boater, there are a few necessary steps to take following any boating-related accident, especially if you’ve been injured as a result of someone else’s negligence.
In this brief article, a Tampa boating accident personal injury lawyer with Inkelaar Law shares a few of the most important steps to take following any boating accident.
The first and most important step in any boating accident is to make sure that everyone on your vessel is accounted for and is in a safe place. Make sure that everyone, including yourself, has a life jacket on in case there is further damage to your boat.
Once everyone is accounted for, seek medical attention as necessary. Because you will likely have a lot of adrenaline at the time of the accident, you may not realize the extent of your injuries until later. It is alway a good idea to get checked out by a medical professional to make sure that you are okay, and to make sure that your injuries are clearly documented.
Once you’ve been treated for any medical needs, contact the proper police department as well as the Coast Guard to make a report while you are still at the scene of the accident. The police and Coast Guard will speak to any witnesses, gather all of the necessary information, and provide you with a report.
You may also find it helpful at this time to exchange information with the owner of the other vessel, just as you would in a car accident. Sorting out liability will be done later, but any supporting documentation including photos and statements can be helpful.
If you have been hurt, it’s a good idea to contact a personal injury attorney after a boating accident in Tampa. An attorney will help you understand who is liable and will help deal with the insurance companies after any type of accident. Often, the insurance company or the other party may try to claim that they are not liable for your medical bills or property damage, but your attorney will be able to work to get the compensation you deserve and navigate the often confusing legal waters of boating accidents.
If you have been injured in an accident and are interested in filing a personal injury case, you need an attorney who will help you get back on your feet. Contacting an attorney with Inkelaar Law in Tampa is the first step in holding the responsible parties accountable and getting you the compensation you deserve.
If you need a personal injury attorney after a boating accident in Tampa, please give us a call for free consultation at (813) 722-0622, or submit our consultation request form.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only. This information does not constitute legal advice, is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual pattern or situation.
