Boating is very popular in South Carolina as there are nearly 3,000 miles of coastline in addition to about 8,000 miles of rivers and lakes. Unfortunately, boating accidents occur often and can cause severe damage. Like motor vehicle accidents, boat collisions can result in serious or even fatal injuries.
If you or a loved one have been injured in a boating accident, then consider having your case evaluated by a seasoned legal professional. A Bluffton boat accident lawyer may be able to work on your behalf to pursue compensation from all responsible parties. It is important to act promptly, though, as the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit in South Carolina is three years from the date of injury. Reach out to a seasoned personal injury attorney to discuss your legal rights and options to recover compensation.
How Boat Accidents Occur
Everyone who operates a boat is obligated to abide by boating safety rules and exercise reasonable caution, just like operators of motor vehicles. The injured claimant’s Bluffton boat accident lawyer could put together a viable claim for compensation by showing that the opposing party did not adhere to this standard of care.
What Is Boater Inattention?
The operator of a boat is expected to pay close attention to the task at hand, including weather conditions, passengers on board, and the movements of nearby watercraft. Being distracted while behind the wheel of a boat can all too easily lead to a collision.
Speeding
Just like roads, most waterways have speed limits. Driving a boat at an excessive speed can lead to a collision with another boat or a stationary object.
Driving Under the Influence
In South Carolina, it is illegal to operate a boat while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Doing so is exceptionally dangerous behavior that can lead to serious injury, loss of life, and imprisonment.
Machinery Failure
If a boating accident occurred due to machine or part failure, the manufacturer could be held liable for damages. Potential defendants include the boat owner, who may not have performed routine maintenance or the manufacturer of a defective part.
For a free legal consultation with a boat accidents lawyer serving Bluffton, call 1-803-366-0333
What Does Share Fault Mean in Bluffton?
In a boating accident, there may be many people who could be held liable for damages, including the injured party. South Carolina follows the rules of comparative negligence codified at South Carolina Code § 15-38-15. If the injured claimant is found to be less than 50 percent at fault for a collision, they may still be able to recover compensation for damages from the defendant. Their compensation award would be reduced by their share of fault.
Bluffton Boat Accident Lawyer Near Me 1-803-366-0333
The Statute of Limitations in Bluffton
In order to recover compensation for damages, claimants must abide by the statute of limitations. The statute of limitations is a time period or deadline required to file certain types of legal actions. Following a boating accident, the injured party has three years to file a personal injury lawsuit.
Since there may be exceptions to the statute of limitations, it is best to seek help from an experienced Bluffton boat accident attorney.
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Speak with a Bluffton Boat Accident Attorney Today
Being injured in a boating accident can be a terrifying experience. Injured individuals are often left with significant physical, emotional, and financial hardships. Fortunately, those who have been injured in a boat collision may seek compensation from the negligent party. Contact a Bluffton boat accident lawyer at Schiller & Hamilton to discuss your legal options to recover compensation.
Call or text 1-803-366-0333 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form