June 17, 2022
Common CA Boating Accidents
Boating accidents can result in severe injuries and can even be fatal. In fact, in 2019, 6% of all fatal recreational boating accidents occurred in California. Many of these accidents are a direct result of someone’s negligence.
Victims of boating accidents can seek damages for their injuries. These damages can help cover the cost of medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses. The Manzoor Law Firm has extensive experience with personal injuries and will fight to help you collect the compensation that you’re owed.
Common Boating Accidents in CA
Any type of recreational water vehicle could get involved in a boating accident. Some of the most common types of accidents include:
- Collisions
- Mechanical failures
- Sinking or capsizing
- Fires
- Propeller injuries
- Slips and falls
- Falling overboard
Victims of boating accidents are at risk for severe, life-changing injuries, including fractured bones, traumatic brain injuries, and injuries to the spine. Some of the leading causes of boat accidents include:
- Operator inexperience
- Operating a boat while distracted
- Speeding
- Taking sharp turns
- Drug or alcohol usage
- Defective equipment
Someone will most likely fall overboard due to following reasons:
- Standing up while a boat is moving
- Unsafe ship design
- Debris or spills on the ship’s floor
- Intoxication
California Boater Laws
In many cases, it’s possible to prove negligence in a boat accident in California showing that the at-fault party violated the state’s boating laws.
- California forbids boating while intoxicated and requires that power boat operators are at least 16 years of age.
- Anyone operating a power boat that’s 25 or younger needs to take a safety course approved by the state.
- Power boaters are not allowed from traveling at speeds above five miles per hour while within 100 feet of swimmers or 200 feet of a beach used by swimmers.
- A power boat must have a whistle or a noise-making device to alert others of its presence.
- All water recreational vehicles with motors and boats over eight feet long must have registration with the DMV.
Determining Who is at Fault
Establishing fault in a boat accident can be challenging. While road accidents often leave clear evidence, like skidmarks, behind, any debris from a boating accident is quickly washed away. This makes it all-important to work with an experienced Roseville personal injury lawyer that’s familiar with boating laws.
Many parties could potentially be liable for a boating accident, including the boat operator, designer, or manufacturer. We consult experts and talk to witnesses to build a strong case that establishes fault and identifies all at-fault parties. We want to make sure that you’re able to collect the full damages that you’re entitled to.
How a Roseville Personal Injury Attorney Can Help
It can be difficult to collect compensation after a boat accident, even when another party is at fault. With the help of experienced lawyers, you’ll be able to collect valuable evidence that established liability. A lawyer can calculate the full value of your claim and handle all negotiations with insurance companies.
Manzoor Law Firm will provide you with representation and support throughout this process. We’ve assisted many clients with boat accident claims and will use our resources and knowledge to make sure that you receive the compensation that you deserve. With our help, you’ll be able to focus on your recovery.
If you or a loved one has got involved in a boating accident, you need to act fast. Not only does California have time limits on boating accident claims, but it can be harder to collect evidence as time goes on. Call us today at (916) 909-1349 so that we can start work on your case.