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Boating is a popular activity in Rock Hill and throughout the state. Cruising on an open lake can be incredibly peaceful. However, when there are reckless or inexperienced boat operators on the water, dangerous accidents could happen.
If you were involved in a water vessel collision, you may be facing severe injuries and mounting medical bills. Fortunately, a Rock Hill boat accident lawyer could help you hold the at-fault party accountable. The personal injury attorneys at Schiller & Hamilton can explore your legal options for recovering compensation.
The Dangers Associated With Boating
Boating is a recreational activity that comes with many potential risks. When operating a watercraft, one must be cautious of strong winds, choppy water, and debris. These natural dangers could lead to flooding, capsizing, or a fall overboard. Depending on the circumstances, a fall overboard could lead to hypothermia or drowning.
Due to the inherent risks of boating, it is crucial to take caution on the water and carry adequate safety equipment. A lawyer familiar with watercraft accident claims could help injured parties determine how inclement weather and natural hazards can impact a potential legal claim.
Negligence and Watercraft Wrecks in Rock Hill
While there are many natural dangers that can lead to a boating accident, many incidents arise due to negligence. For example, inexperienced or inattentive boaters may cause a collision if they fail to navigate away from another watercraft quickly enough.
Alternatively, if a mechanic failure causes an accident, the manufacturer or person responsible for inspecting the vessel could be held liable. Other forms of negligence could be clear violations of state law.
Operating a water vessel while under the influence of drugs or alcohol is against the law. If the person responsible for a boating accident was intoxicated, that would constitute negligence per se. Proving negligence per se can strengthen an injured party’s claim for damages.
Regardless of the cause of a watercraft wreck, it is important to talk to a local attorney about the situation. Our lawyers have in-depth knowledge of the relevant laws and dedicated resources to aid injured parties in proving fault.
Recovering Damages in a Boating Accident Case
After proving liability in a boat accident claim, and lawyer could help injured parties pursue damages for various economic and non-economic losses. An individual could seek compensation for damages such as:
- Medical bills
- Accessibility aids
- Property damage
- Lost income
- Reduced earning capacity
- Mental anguish
- Pain and suffering
A dedicated attorney could help injured parties calculate all their potential damages after an accident.
Wrongful Death Damages
Like car accidents, boating accidents sometimes prove fatal. If you lost a loved one in such an accident, our wrongful death lawyers can help your family cope in their absence. While you grieve in peace and honor the memory of your loved one, we can build your case and pursue wrongful death damages, which may include:
- Your loved one’s medical bills
- Funeral and burial arrangements
- Your loved one’s income
- Your loved one’s pain and suffering
Our legal team can also determine who in your family has the ability to file a wrongful death lawsuit.
Work With a Rock Hill Boat Accident Attorney Today
Boating accidents can have a severe impact on every aspect of your life. Your injuries may require extensive medical treatment, forcing you to take time off work. Depending on the severity of your injuries, you may even need long-term rehabilitation, which can lead to a lifetime of medical expenses.
If you have been in a devastating boating accident, it may be in your best interest to reach out to a Rock Hill boat accident lawyer. The legal team at Schiller & Hamilton could review your case and help you seek restitution. The laws governing accidents on the water are complex, so you should not try to handle your case alone. Call us today for your free consultation to discuss how our boating accident lawyers can help.