Murphy Boat Accident Lawyer

Recreational boaters often enjoy spending time on the water, but getting involved in a watercraft accident can be a stressful experience. If you were injured in a wreck caused by a negligent boat operator, you should reach out to a skilled personal injury attorney.

A Murphy boat accident lawyer could assess your case and inform you of your legal rights. Call our office today to speak with our attorneys and staff about your potential case.

Important Steps to Take Following a Boat Collision in Murphy

There are some important steps to take following a watercraft accident that could impact the outcome of an injured person’s case.

Rendering Aid After the Watercraft Accident

Texas Parks and Wildlife Code § 31.104 states that immediately after an accident, the boat operator should aid the other people affected by the wreck. If this would not be possible without endangering their boat or the other passengers, this law does not apply.

Exchanging Contact Information

Exchanging relevant contact information is also required under the law. The boat operator, injured parties, and owners of any damaged property must provide each other with their name and address.

Additionally, boat owners have to identify their boat to the other parties involved. All this information should be exchanged in writing.

Reporting the Boating Wreck

Texas Parks and Wildlife Code § 31.105 mandates that boat operators report any accidents that result in death, personal injury, or over $2,000 or property damage to the Department of Public Safety. Such incidents must be reported within 30 days of their occurrence. Injured parties who are unsure whether these laws apply to their situation should contact a boat accident lawyer as soon as possible.

Liability for Boating Accidents

Determining liability in a boat wreck is very similar to how one would handle a car accident case. A boat operator who is acting with negligence can be held financially liable for the damages they cause.

A boater may be considered liable if they were speeding, operating the watercraft while under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or otherwise violating The Texas Water Safety Act. It is important to note that the process of determining liability may be different depending on where the accident took place.

The Shipowner’s Limitation of Liability Act

If the boating accident occurred outside a 12-mile radius from the state shoreline, the Shipowner’s Limitation of Liability Act may be applicable. This law states that the at-fault party’s liability is limited to the value of the damages to the boat if the owner had no way of anticipating the accident. A local attorney who focuses on boat accidents could inform injured parties of the laws governing their case.

How a Murphy Boat Accident Attorney Can Help

Boating accidents can be costly. In addition to expensive medical bills, you may have sustained property damage that requires repairs. If your boating wreck was caused by the negligence of another person, you could take legal action to lessen that financial burden. A Murphy boat accident lawyer could walk you through the legal process and help you achieve a fair outcome to your case. Call today.