Boat Accident Attorneys for Riverdale, East Point, College Park, Stockbridge, Morrow, Jonesboro, And The Entire Metro Atlanta Region.

Boating is no doubt an enjoyable pastime for Georgian, especially during warmer weather, but it is important to understand that there is always a possibility of a boat injury. A boat is a vehicle, and an accident can happen at any time when you’re out on the water–just as there is always the possibility of a car accident when you are out on the road.

Although most boating accidents may be minimal in nature, a trip, or a fall during a large wave and things of that nature, other more serious accidents can be life-threatening. Safety is key.

In the case of a major boating accident, aside from the property damage that the boat may sustain, more important are those injuries that are critical and or fatal.

The Common Causes Of Boating Accidents

Any number of accidents can occur out on the waterways, many can be prevented by being prepared and putting your safety and that of other passengers at the forefront of your boat ride. Here is a list of common causes that may result in a Georgia boating accident:

• Boating while under the influence of alcohol or controlled substances
• Boating under the influence of medication under which one should not operate any vehicle or machinery
• Inexperienced boating operation
• Failure to stay alert at all times
• Rowdy or Reckless activity or behavior of the passenger or driver
• Failure to follow watercraft operation guidelines especially with respect to other boats and speed
• Bad weather conditions out on the water or hazardous water conditions
• Equipment failure

It is common in boating accidents to have more than one element involved that leads up to the boating accident which contributed to the injury of those on board.

Let Southside Help You After Your Boating Accident:

Sustaining an injury or injuries after a boat accident is painful, recovering from those injuries while questioning whether or not you have an injury claim is stressful. Southside Injury Law is here to help you through this difficult time to help guide you through the process with:

• Ensuring that you get the medical care that you need
• Being the conduit through the process by communicating with the insurance company(ies) on your behalf.
• Gathering, retaining and organizing vital evidence that supports your injury claims.

At Southside Injury Law, our goal is to ensure that you are properly supported throughout your recovery and claims process. We fight for your rights so that you can begin the process of healing and focus on rehabilitation.

Contact Southside Injury Law Today:

Call and speak to our experienced Georgia Boat Accident Attorneys who will compassionately guide you through the process of your Boat Accident Injury Claim. 

Call (770) 703-6008 or toll-free at (800) 393-8595 now

Boat Accident Attorneys Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do after a boat accident in Georgia?

After a boat accident, prioritize everyone’s safety and seek medical attention for any injuries. Report the accident when required, document the scene, collect witness information, and preserve photographs, videos, medical records, and other evidence. Avoid admitting fault or making statements about liability before speaking with an attorney.

Who can be held responsible for a boat accident in Georgia?

Depending on the circumstances, liability may fall on the boat operator, boat owner, rental company, manufacturer, employer, or another responsible party. A boat accident investigation may consider operator negligence, intoxication, unsafe operation, equipment failure, inadequate maintenance, and violations of boating laws.

Can I file a personal injury claim if I was a passenger on a boat?

Yes. A passenger injured in a boating accident may have a personal injury claim if another person’s negligence or wrongful conduct caused the accident. Potentially responsible parties may include the vessel operator, owner, another boater, or another party whose actions contributed to the injury.

What types of compensation can I recover after a boat accident?

Depending on the circumstances of the case, compensation may include medical expenses, future medical treatment, lost income, reduced earning capacity, pain and suffering, emotional distress, property damage, and other losses related to the accident. Families may also have claims when a boating accident results in a wrongful death.

What if the boat operator was drinking when the accident happened?

Alcohol impairment can be an important factor in determining liability for a boating accident. If an impaired operator caused or contributed to the accident, evidence of intoxication may support an injury claim. The specific facts of the accident should be reviewed to determine who may be legally responsible.

Can I still recover compensation if I was partially at fault for a boat accident?

Possibly. Georgia’s comparative negligence rules can affect an injured person’s ability to recover compensation and may reduce the amount recovered based on the person’s share of fault. The effect of comparative negligence depends on the facts and circumstances of the accident.

What evidence can help prove a Georgia boat accident claim?

Useful evidence may include photographs and videos of the accident, vessel damage, injuries, weather and water conditions, witness information, accident reports, medical records, boating records, insurance information, and other documentation showing how the accident occurred and who may have been responsible.

How long do I have to file a boat accident injury claim in Georgia?

The deadline for filing a boat accident injury claim can depend on the parties involved, the type of claim, and whether state or federal maritime law applies. Because missing an applicable filing deadline can affect your ability to pursue compensation, it is important to have an attorney review the circumstances of the accident as soon as possible.

Should I talk to the insurance company after a boat accident?

You should be careful when communicating with an insurance company after a boating accident. Insurers may ask questions or request statements that could affect your claim. Before providing a detailed statement or accepting a settlement, consider having an attorney review your situation and advise you about your rights.

How can a boat accident attorney help with my injury claim?

A boat accident attorney can investigate how the accident occurred, identify potentially responsible parties, preserve evidence, communicate with insurance companies, evaluate your damages, and pursue compensation through negotiation or litigation when appropriate.

How much does it cost to hire a boat accident attorney?

Many personal injury attorneys handle qualifying injury cases on a contingency-fee basis, meaning the client generally does not pay an attorney fee unless compensation is recovered. The specific fee arrangement should be explained during your consultation.