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Marko Law Firm

Boat Accident Lawyer in Grand Rapids, MI

Grand Rapids Boat Accident Lawyer

Injured in a Boat Crash?

Michigan boasts dozens of popular bodies of water that are perfect for summertime boating. With such great access to the water, it is not unusual that thousands of residents hit the water every year along with countless tourists and visitors who come for a summer break. The majority of people enjoy their time on the water safely and then return to their daily lives. Sadly for some, a boating trip will turn tragic and result in an accident. If you or a loved one has been involved in a boating accident, talk to the Grand Rapids Boating Accident Lawyers at Marko Law today to get the compensation you are entitled to.

Common Reasons for Boating Accidents

The majority of boating accidents had one thing in common. Typically, at least one operator was driving in a dangerous or reckless way, resulting in a crash with another boat or a fixed object. Further, more than half of the deadly accidents involve a boater under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs. Most Michigan boating accidents happen as a result of negligence on the part of the driver, whether that negligence is caused by intoxication, distraction, or lack of experience. Overwhelmingly, most boating accidents involve drivers with significant on-water experience but little or no formal training. This combo can lead to an overconfident operator that may ignore some vital safety procedures.

Boating while intoxicated

In a lot of aspects, boating accidents can mirror car accidents with a lot of the same factors in each causing crashes in the other. As earlier mentioned, operating under the influence is extremely common. Too often, drinking alcohol and boating go hand-in-hand in Michigan. Friends and family gather for a fun day on the water, but boating under the influence is illegal and unsafe. Boaters in Michigan deal with the same criteria as drivers when it comes to intoxication by any type of substance that hinders a driver's ability to operate a watercraft. Yet typically, those who would never drink and drive somehow choose to boat and drive. Intoxication is a factor in too many boating casualties in Michigan, in some years over 50%.

Distracted boating

Another common reason for boating accidents is inattentiveness by an operator. Often this leads to an accident between two watercrafts, or in one watercraft striking an object or a person in the water.

Speeding

Every year accidents occur where a speeding boater fails to see a swimmer in the water. Therefore, the boat strikes or runs over the swimmer, sometimes with tragic consequences. In other accidents, a big boat operating at a high speed might fail to see a smaller boat concealed by waves until it is too late and a collision happens.

Negligent boat maintenance

Like other vehicles, boats are subject to wear and require maintenance to keep them in good working condition. This might require the installment of new parts or repair of broken parts at periods in the life of the boat. Failing to properly maintain a boat can result in a hazardous condition and even a crash. This may lead to injuries to those aboard or to others in the area. Some adequately maintained boats might otherwise be unsafe if they are subject to a flaw or defect in design. This issue could make regular use of the boat precarious to a novel or an experienced boater.

Legal Options After a Boating Accident

Many of those that sustain injury in a boating accident are unaware that they might be able to make a financial recovery for their damages. The kind of claim available and whether a recovery is possible varies. It depends on the type of accident, the injuries to the victim, and whether someone was negligent or reckless in causing the injury. As each case is unique, it is always a good idea to speak with a personal injury attorney after an accident to learn about your legal rights.As an accident victim, you might be able to make a claim against the at-fault boater, the boat owner, and even the marina and/or rental company in some cases. This claim can provide you with compensation for your:

  • Medical bills
  • Lost wages you were unable to earn
  • Pain and suffering
  • Loss of normal life
  • Any other real damages because of the accident

If your loved one dies in a boating accident, you may get compensation for your losses. This could include the time you will no longer be able to spend in your loved one's company and future loss of income.In some cases, an at-fault boater may not be known or might not be a sensible source of a financial recovery. This does not always protect against a victim from getting compensation in a lot of accidents. An attorney can help you realize whether another kind of compensation might be available.

Contact Us Today to Get a Free Consultation

If you are ready to start your case or need more information about a Boat Accident Lawyer in Grand Rapids, Michigan, contact Marko Law Firm today. Let us represent you as you seek justice and compensation for your pain and damages. Call (313) 777-7LAW today to get a free consultation or visit our website: MarkoLaw.com to get more information.

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