Summer Boating Accidents in Illinois

 Posted on July 01,2024 in Personal Injury

Summer is the time when many people are playing sports, taking vacations, and engaging in outdoor activities. However, injuries tend to increase during the summer months due to these activities, and these injuries have the potential to impact victims for the rest of their lives. Boating is one of the most common activities in summer, and it is one that can lead to serious consequences should an accident occur.

If you have been involved in a boating accident, you need to speak with a skilled Illinois catastrophic injury lawyer to learn about your legal options.

Boating Accidents Can Lead to Life-Changing Injuries

Taking a boat out for the day is a fun and relaxing activity. However, boats can be dangerous vehicles, and any individual who operates a boat must complete an Illinois boat safety course. In addition to the safety course, operating a boat while under the influence of alcohol or drugs is illegal, and all boats must keep proper safety equipment on board.

While most people aim to keep their boating activities safe, accidents do happen, and these can be caused by the negligent or reckless behavior of another party. When a boating accident occurs, there is a great risk of property damage, severe bodily injury, or even fatalities.

The most common life-altering injuries sustained during boating include:

• Traumatic brain injuries

• Neck, back, and spinal cord injuries, including those that lead to paralysis

• Severely broken bones

• Nerve damage

• Disfigurement or scarring

If you have been injured in a boating accident, you may find yourself with expensive medical bills, a difficult recovery process, and a completely altered lifestyle. Fortunately, in many cases, you can pursue a claim for compensation to help you cover your damages.

Who Is Liable for a Boating Accident?

In a boating accident, you will need to determine who is at fault for causing the accident to determine who is liable for damages. In many cases, this involves showing that the accident was caused by the negligent or reckless behavior of another party. For example, if someone operated his or her boat while intoxicated or at an unsafe speed, and caused a collision with your boat, you may have a successful claim against that person or his insurance company.

In some cases, accidents are caused by defective boat parts, in which case the liability would be on the manufacturer or the dealer that sold the defective boat parts. Your attorney will help you investigate your case and collect evidence to establish liability so you can maximize your chances of a successful personal injury claim.

Contact a Rockford, IL Boating Accident Lawyer

If you or a loved one has been injured while boating, you will need the guidance of a Winnebago County, IL boating accident attorney.

At Mannarino & Brasfield, A Division of Schwartz Injury Law, we know how serious injuries sustained during boating can be, and we will fight for your right to maximum compensation for your damages. Call 815-215-7561 for a free consultation.