Frequently Asked Questions
What is a boating accident?
A boating accident relates to any accident involving a boat, ship, jet ski, personal watercraft, ferry, or any other type of watercraft. These accidents may involve collision, capsizing, crew overboard, fire, sinking, flooding, or explosion.
What is a personal watercraft?
A personal watercraft is an inboard boat. A personal watercraft is a vessel that utilizes an inboard motor to power a water jet pump as the main source of propulsion. The watercraft is operated by a single person who is sitting, standing, or kneeling on the vessel.
How many boating accidents occur each year in the United States?
The United States Coast Guard estimates that 8,000 boat accidents occur each year, resulting in close to 5,000 injuries, and over 800 fatalities.
Which state has the most boating accidents?
Florida has the highest number of boat accidents, while California is second in total number of boat accidents.
What is the cause of most boating fatalities?
Most boating fatalities are the result of a passenger falling overboard or the boat capsizing.
What is the cause of most non-fatal boating accidents?
Most non-fatal boating accidents are the result of collisions.
How many boating accidents involve personal watercraft?
On average, approximately 5,000 personal watercraft accidents occur each year, resulting in 2,000 injuries and over 60 deaths.
What should I do if I have been injured in a boating accident?
If you have been injured in a boating accident, the first thing you should do is gather as much information as you can. The longer you wait to gather information, the more difficult it will be to obtain. Be sure to get the other boater’s name, address, phone number, insurance carrier, and other information that could be helpful. You should then contact an attorney. An experienced boat accident attorney will help you decide whether or not you should pursue your claim, and how to do so.
How much will an attorney charge to evaluate my boat accident lawsuit?
Our attorneys offer free consultations for all boat accident claims. Just contact us and an experienced boat accident attorney will be in touch with you soon.