Connecticut Boat Accident Lawyer | Bert McDowell Injury Law

A boat accident can quickly turn a relaxing day on the water into a frightening experience that leaves you with lasting trauma. The crashes can also leave you with severe and painful injuries that could have a catastrophic impact on your life.

When a boat operator’s negligent actions cause the accident, you could have the legal right to hold them liable for the damages. Guidance from a seasoned injury lawyer in navigating the civil claims process could give you the best chance of obtaining a positive case result. Reach out to a Connecticut boat accident attorney at Bert McDowell Injury Law for help with your claim.

Common Causes of Boat Collisions in Connecticut

If a boat operator or passengers are reckless, it can quickly lead to a collision, including the boat capsizing or passengers falling overboard. There are many reasons these catastrophic accidents occur; some of the most common include:

Speeding and reckless boating on the waterways
Watercraft operator inattentiveness
Boat operator error or inexperience
Operating a watercraft while under the influence
Exceeding safe occupant capacity
Hitting a swimmer or object with propellers
Hitting a wake at high speeds
Lack of knowledge of maritime safety rules and regulations

A diligent Connecticut boat crash lawyer like Bert McDowell has the experience necessary to investigate the incident thoroughly to find the cause and hold the liable party accountable.

Proving Liability and Recovering Damages After a Boat Crash

To establish liability after a boat collision, the claimant must prove the damages occurred because of negligence. If—after hearing the case and reviewing the evidence—the court rules in favor of the plaintiff, they will award compensation under two categories.

Economic Damages

Economic damages cover verifiable out-of-pocket financial losses the plaintiff suffers because of the accident. Award amounts cover all medical expenses related to the boat crash, the cost of future medical care, loss of pay, and future earning potential.

Non-Economic Damages

Non-economic damages refer to payment for non-monetary and subjective losses. Compensation could cover mental pain, anguish, suffering, permanent disability or disfigurement, and physical pain and suffering.

Recreational Boating Safety Rules and Regulations

There are boating laws and regulations in place to keep boaters safe while out on the waterways. Under Emily’s Law in Connecticut, every watercraft and vessel operator towing a skier or pulling a tube must be at least 16 years of age and have a state boating certificate.

The boater must also complete a safety course to register a boat and take it on any bodies of water within the state. The legislation strictly prohibits operators from boating while under the influence of any substances, including alcohol and illicit or prescription drugs.

All watercraft operators must exercise a certain degree of care to prevent causing injuries or property damages to others. Failure to follow safety regulations will lead to criminal and civil penalties. A skilled boat wreck attorney in Connecticut could review the details of a specific case to determine if a defendant operator failed to follow state safety laws.

Schedule a Consultation with a Connecticut Boat Accident Lawyer

Boating is an excellent way to spend time with loved ones out on the waters in Connecticut. Though, it can also be dangerous if there is a failure to follow safety regulations or maintain proper upkeep of the water vessel.

When an accident occurs because of a boat driver’s careless actions, they should pay for the damages their negligent behavior caused. For more information or for help with filing a case, contact a Connecticut boat accident attorney at Bert McDowell Injury Law to schedule a meeting. Ready to get started? Then, it’s time to Bring on Bert!