Allen Boat Accident Lawyer

Boating is a popular way to enjoy time on the water for many individuals, but the experience could quickly turn tragic. That is because accidents involving boats are on the rise. In fact, according to a report provided by the United States Coast Guard, there were 4,291 recreational boating accidents in 2017 that caused 658 deaths and 2,629 injuries. When you suffer an injury in a boating accident, an experienced Allen boat accident lawyer could help you bring a lawsuit against the responsible party.

If you were harmed in a boat crash due to the recklessness of another person, compensation could substantially improve your financial situation during recovery. Find out more information about filing a claim for a boat accident, contact a dedicated injury attorney.

What are Common Causes of Boat Wrecks?

Safety typically is the aim of all boaters but sometimes, factors arise that may put passengers at risk of serious injury. While a number of different causes may contribute to a boat crash, some of the most common include alcohol use, violation of navigation rules, distracted driving, machinery failure, and inexperience.

These issues could cause a boat to collide with another moving boat or a fixed object, become flooded or grounded, or experience another type of accident that may cause serious injuries. When that occurs an Allen lawyer could help determine the validity of a boat wreck claim.

What are the Boating Laws in Allen?

Texas promotes recreational water safety through regulation. In addition to administrative requirements, the statutes also govern the equipment boats typically must have on board to help protect boaters and their passengers. If one has any questions about the boating laws, feel free to consult with a knowledgeable attorney in Allen.

Equipment Requirements

Some of the required equipment for motorboats and vessels may include:

Lights
Sound-Producing Devices
Life Preservers
Fire Extinguishers
Rearview Mirrors

Furthermore, a vessel or motorboat underway typically must exhibit at least one bright light, lantern or flashlight at all times. Motorboats also generally need to have a whistle or other sound-producing device if required by the Coast Guard. Additionally, a motorboat may need to carry at least one wearable personal flotation device for each person on board. Motorboats may also need to have fire extinguishers as required by the Coast Guard. A vessel that tows a person on water skis or similar devices usually must have a rearview mirror unless involved in a competition or exhibition. While sailboats and other crafts such as canoes and rowboats are often exempt from most of these equipment requirements, they may be required to have one wearable personal flotation device for each person and lights. To learn more about rules and regulations surrounding boating activities, consult an local boat accident lawyer.

Operation

The statutes commonly specify certain activities that are unlawful for boaters, including:

Reckless or Negligent Operation
Speeding
Operating while intoxicated or impaired

Generally, it is considered unlawful to operate a boat while intoxicated. This could lead to reckless driving such as exceeding speed limits or turning too quickly and in an unsafe manner. A boater who engages in such violations could be held liable in court and potentially may be required to pay damages to an injured party.

How an Allen Boat Accident Attorney May Help

When you are injured in a boating accident, the experience could be both physically damaging as well as emotionally scarring. A knowledgeable Allen boat accident lawyer could help you bring a cause of action against the responsible party. Call and arrange for an appointment to discuss legal strategies that may benefit your case.