Jersey County Boat Accident Lawyer

Jersey County Boat Accident Attorney

Boating is a recreational activity enjoyed by millions of Americans every year. However, just like any other type of vehicle, there are risks that come with operating a boat in Jersey County. Whether your boat stalled and you collided with another vessel or a reckless driver hit you without thinking, any kind of accident can result in immense damage and injuries. If you have been involved in a boat accident, contact a Jersey County boat accident lawyer immediately.

Don’t Wait to Hire an Experienced Boat Accident Attorney

At Joshua R. Evans, Attorney at Law, you can count on our experienced legal team to represent your interests throughout your personal injury claim in Jersey County. We know that being involved in a boating accident can be stressful and traumatic, which is why we’re prepared to offer our resources, knowledge, and support to clients who need it most. While you may be going through a great deal of stress, we implore you to take legal action quickly to hold liable parties accountable.

Common Causes of Boating Accidents in Illinois

While you can try your hardest to act with caution and attempt to avoid accidents in Jersey County, you never know when someone else’s negligence will cause an accident. The following are some of the most common causes of boating accidents here in Illinois:

• Human Error: While negligence can certainly be a factor in human error, an accident could also simply be the result of an inexperienced or inattentive captain. Regardless of the size of the vessel, the person piloting it is responsible for the safety of everybody onboard, as well as the safety of other people boating in the same area. Driving a boat is not the same as driving a car and requires many different skills.
• Driving While Intoxicated: Driving a boat while under the influence of drugs or alcohol is just as dangerous and illegal as driving a car while in the same state. Some people think driving a boat may not be as serious or dangerous, but this is far from the truth. You are still operating a vehicle while not in complete control of your faculties and could cause serious injuries if you cause an accident.
• Equipment Failure: A sudden failure in the boat’s mechanics can result in a terrible accident or seriously hurt somebody. This could occur due to a manufacturer’s error or a boat mechanic’s negligence. Regardless, equipment failure is dangerous and could cause the boat to sink, catch fire, suddenly stop, or crash into the beach or another obstacle. Proper inspection and consistent upkeep can help prevent equipment failure.
• Inefficient Lookout: It is common practice for the captain to employ the assistance of a lookout who can keep watch for swimmers, skiers, and possible drowners. If the captain is too busy with the vehicle’s operation, a lookout holds some of the responsibility for keeping the crew safe. Having an improper or inefficient lookout puts everybody in the boat and in other boats at serious risk.
• Speeding: Speeding is dangerous no matter what vehicle you are driving. Just like speeding in a car can put many others at serious risk, so can speeding in a boat. Additionally, when you travel at higher speeds, you increase the potential of causing a more serious accident and even catastrophic injuries. Depending on where you are driving, speeding may also be against the posted rules.

Boating Accident Lawyer FAQs

Q: What Is the First Action Required After a Boating Accident?

A: The very first thing you should do after a boating accident has occurred is stop the boat. Do a quick, accurate headcount to make sure all of your passengers are in the boat. You should then make sure you have a first-aid kit ready and call 911 if you are dealing with serious injuries. If your initial response is not timely and focused on the immediate safety of everyone onboard, it could seriously impact your legal proceedings and the injuries of everyone involved.

Q: What Is the Accident Liability in Illinois?

A: According to Illinois state law, the operator of the watercraft that causes the accident is liable for any injuries or damage sustained in the crash due to their negligent operation. This means the person driving the boat is responsible for the safety of the crew onboard, for the vessel, and for other vessels operating near it. If the captain causes an accident due to negligence or recklessness, they are liable for any damages that occur.

Q: How Do You Respond to Boat Accidents in Illinois?

A: After stopping the boat and making sure everyone onboard is safe and accounted for, you should notify the proper authorities that a boat accident has just occurred. Once the authorities have arrived, you can secure the scene of the accident if they have given you the okay to do so. Make sure you document everything you can. Take photos of the accident, of any injuries, and of any property damage. Write down your own recollection of events so you can refer to it later.

Q: Is Illinois a No-Fault Accident State?

A: Illinois is an at-fault state when it comes to accidents and seeking damages. This means that the driver of any vehicle who causes an accident that leads to injury or other damages is responsible for compensating the other party. To receive compensation, the injured party will need to file an accident claim against the at-fault party’s insurance policy carrier and prove their fault.

Contact a Qualified Jersey County Boating Accident Attorney Today

Being in any kind of accident can be a terrifying ordeal. However, when you’re involved in a boating accident, you may be dealing with legal territory you’re unfamiliar with. Working closely with our experienced Jersey County boat accident lawyer can help ensure that you understand your rights and that they are protected throughout all legal proceedings.

Joshua R. Evans, Attorney at Law, has helped countless clients file personal injury claims in Jersey County and is prepared to do the same for you. We’re ready to assess your case, prove liability, and fight for the damages you’re owed. Contact our firm today to schedule a consultation and learn more about our boating accident services in Illinois.