Atlanta
Boat Accident Lawyers
Let us take care of the legal details, so you can focus on your recovery
Hurt in a Boat Accident?
Every year in the US thousands of people are injured and many die in boating accidents. Oftentimes these accidents result in severe injuries, unpaid medical bills, lost wages, and permanent disabilities.
The Atlanta Boat Accident Lawyers at Jonathan W. Johnson LLC, are experienced in handling cases arising from boating accidents as well as personal watercraft accidents (Jet Ski, Wave Runner, Sea-Doo).
If you or a loved one has been injured in a boat accident, Call us now for a Free Consultation at (404) 689-9285.
common Causes
Some of the major causes of recreational boating accidents are operator inattention, careless/reckless boat operation, excessive speed, inappropriate passenger/skier behavior, alcohol, and improper lookout.
These negligent acts and others cause:
- Boats to capsize or collide
- Flooding, fire, and explosion
- Skiers may be struck by propellers or the vessels towing them
- Passengers may fall overboard
From time to time, negligently designed boats and defective boating equipment can also cause accidents, which give rise to claims against manufacturers.
In Georgia, however, know that the victim could be held responsible. According to Ga. Code § 51-12-33, the state’s negligence rule states that the judge could reduce compensation based on the percentage of fault of the victim.
Be sure to hire an experienced Atlanta Boat Accident lawyers, like Jonathan W. Johnson, LLC, to help you fight for the compensation you are owed.
At Jonathan W. Johnson, LLC, our experienced Atlanta Boat Accident Lawyers know how to investigate boating accidents and evaluate the validity of claims that arise from them. They focus on answering critical questions which may determine the validity of your case:
- Was the defendant operator of the boat intoxicated at the time of the accident?
- Was he operating his boat at an excessive speed for the circumstances and conditions?
- Was he turning too sharply in close proximity to another vessel?
- Was he in compliance with Georgia Administrative Code regulations regarding the safe operation of watercraft?
If the defendant was operating a personal watercraft such as Jet Ski, Sea-Doo or Wave Runner:
- Was the defendant speeding or weaving across the water unsafely?
- Was he following or crossing the path of another vessel too closely?
Frequently Asked Questions
There are a few instances where you must report the accident to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources within 48 hours by calling 800-241-4113. If any of the following occurs, and you are a vehicle involved in the accident or witness, GA Code § 52-7-14 mandates you to report the incident.
- A person dies within 24 hours of the incident
- A person disappears from a vessel
- A person requires medical treatment for injuries
- A person is disabled for more than 24 hours;
- Intoxication
- Distracted driving
- Boating inexperience
- Speeding
- Mechanical failure
- Bad weather
1. Stay Calm and Call for Help
Boating accidents can be frightening and overwhelming. The first thing you should do is stay calm and call for help. If anyone is injured or in distress, call 911 immediately. If the accident is less severe, call the coast guard or Georgia Department of Natural Resources.
2. Document the Accident and Seek Medical Attention
Documentation is crucial when it comes to any legal matter, including boating accidents. If possible, take photos of the accident scene and any damages to the boat or property. Get the contact information of any witnesses and other parties involved in the accident. This information will be helpful when filing a claim.
Even if you feel fine, it’s important to seek medical attention after a boating accident. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent, and delaying treatment could make the injury worse. Additionally, having a record of any injuries sustained will be useful when filing a claim.
3. Contact an Atlanta Boating Accident Lawyer
Personal injury claims can be complex, especially when it comes to boating accidents. It’s important to contact an experienced Atlanta Boating Accident Lawyer who can guide you through the process and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. We offer a free consultation and work on a contingency basis, meaning you won’t have to pay anything until you receive compensation.
It is generally advised against talking to any insurance companies without first consulting with an Atlanta Boating Accident Lawyer. Your lawyer can help negotiate a fair settlement and ensure your rights are protected.
More information
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