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Marko Law Firm

Boat Accident Lawyer in Taylor, MI

Taylor Boat Accident Lawyer

Injured In a Boat Crash?

Michigan possesses lots of popular bodies of water that are ideal for summertime boating. With such great access to the water, it is not unusual that thousands of residents hit the water each year as well as countless tourists and visitors that come for a summer break. The majority of people enjoy their time on the water safely and then return to their daily lives. Unfortunately for some, a boating trip will turn tragic and lead to an accident. If you or a loved one has been involved in a boating accident, talk to the Taylor Boat Accident Lawyers at Marko Law today to get the compensation you are entitled to.

Common Causes of Boating Accidents

The majority of boating accidents had one thing in common. Generally, at least one operator was driving in an unsafe or careless way, causing a collision with another boat or a fixed object. Further, over half of the fatal accidents involve a boater under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs. A lot of Michigan boating accidents happen as a result of negligence on the part of the driver, whether that negligence is caused by intoxication, distraction, or inexperience. Overwhelmingly, the majority of boating accidents involve operators with extensive on-water experience but little or no formal training. This combination can result in a cocky operator who might ignore some crucial safety procedures.

Boating while intoxicated

In many aspects, boating accidents can mimic car accidents with many of the same elements in each causing collisions in the other. As previously mentioned, operating under the influence is very common. Too often, consuming 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 dangerous. Boaters in Michigan face the same criteria as drivers when it comes to intoxication by any kind of substance that impairs a driver's ability to operate a watercraft. Yet often, those who would never drink and drive somehow decide to boat and drive. Intoxication is a factor in too many boating casualties in Michigan, in some years over 50%.

Distracted boating

Another common cause of boating accidents is inattentiveness by an operator. Often this causes an accident between two boats, or in one watercraft striking an object or an individual in the water.

Speeding

Every year accidents happen where a speeding boater fails to notice a swimmer in the water. As a result, the boat strikes or runs over the swimmer, often 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 crash occurs.

Negligent boat maintenance

Like other vehicles, boats are subject to wear and require maintenance to keep them in proper working condition. This may require the installation of new parts or repair of damaged parts at intervals in the life of the boat. Failing to properly maintain a watercraft can result in a dangerous condition and even an accident. This might lead to injuries to those aboard or to others in the area.Some properly maintained boats may 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 a seasoned boater.

Legal Options After a Boating Accident

Many of those who suffer injury in a boating accident are unaware that they may be able to make a financial recovery for their damages. The kind of claim available and whether a recovery is possible differs. It depends on the kind of accident, the injuries to the victim, and whether somebody was negligent or reckless in causing the injury. As each incident 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 expenses
  • Lost income you were not able to earn
  • Pain and suffering
  • Loss of normal life
  • Any other real damages due to the accident

If your family member dies in a boating accident, you might 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. Sometimes, an at-fault boater may not be known or might not be a feasible source of a financial recovery. This does not always prevent a victim from getting compensation in a lot of accidents. A lawyer can help you realize whether another form 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 Taylor, 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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