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Marko Law Firm

Boat Accident Lawyer in Troy, MI

Troy Boat Accident Lawyer

Injured in a Boat Accident?

Michigan has dozens of popular bodies of water that are ideal for summertime boating. With such great access to the water, it is not surprising that thousands of residents hit the water each year as well as countless tourists and visitors who come for a summer break. Most people enjoy their time on the water safely and then return to their everyday 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, contact the Troy Boating Accident Attorney at Marko Law today to receive the compensation you are entitled to.

Common Reasons for Boating Accidents

Most boating accidents had one thing in common. Generally, at least one operator was driving in a dangerous or careless way, resulting in a crash with another boat or a fixed object. In addition, over half of the deadly accidents involve a boater under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs. A lot of Michigan boating accidents occur as a result of negligence on the part of the driver, whether that negligence is caused by intoxication, distraction, or inexperience. Overwhelmingly, most boating accidents involve operators with extensive on-water experience but little or no formal training. This combination can lead to an overconfident driver who 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 really common. Too often, drinking alcohol and boating go together 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 substance that impairs a driver's ability to operate a watercraft. Yet often, those that would never drink and drive somehow decide to boat and drive. Intoxication is a factor in too many boating deaths in Michigan, in some years over 50%.

Distracted boating

Another common cause of boating accidents is inattentiveness by an operator. Frequently this causes a collision between two boats, or in one boat striking an object or an individual in the water.

Speeding

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

Negligent boat maintenance

Like other vehicles, boats are subject to wear and require maintenance to keep them in proper working condition. This might require the installation of new parts or repair of damaged parts at intervals in the life of the boat. Neglecting to adequately maintain a boat can lead to a hazardous condition or even a crash. This might result in injuries to those aboard or to others in the area.Some properly maintained boats might otherwise be hazardous if they are subject to a flaw or defect in design. This problem can make normal use of the boat precarious to a novel or a seasoned boater.

Legal Options After a Boating Accident

A lot of those that sustain 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 varies. It depends on the type of accident, the injuries to the victim, and whether somebody was negligent or reckless in causing the injury. As each case is different, it is always a good idea to talk to a personal injury attorney after an accident to learn about your legal rights. As an accident victim, you may be able to make a claim against the at-fault boater, the boat owner, and even the marina and/or rental company in some situations. This claim can provide you with compensation for your:

  • Medical bills
  • Lost wages you were not able to earn
  • Pain and suffering
  • Loss of normal life
  • Any other real damages because of the crash

If your family member dies in a boating accident, you may get compensation for your losses. This can 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 might not be known or may not be a practical source of a financial recovery. This does not necessarily stop a victim from receiving compensation in a lot of accidents. A lawyer can help you realize whether a different form of compensation may 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 Troy, 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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