How to File a Boat Accident Claim
Boating is often fun and thrilling, but it could quickly become deadly if not careful. Like automobiles, boats must abide by strict safety guidelines to avoid injuries.
If you've suffered injuries in an accident on the water, you may be eligible to receive compensation for medical expenses as well as property damage. To increase your chances of winning, contact a qualified New York boat accident attorney.
1. Gather Evidence
When someone experiences an accident on the water the first step is to collect evidence and contact an attorney. You should also seek medical assistance immediately for any injuries. Medical records and other proof are needed to prove claims for damages, including future and current medical costs, loss of income or earning potential, property damage, and non-economic damages like suffering and pain.
Videos and photos can help preserve evidence from the scene of a boating accident. Eyewitness testimony can be an invaluable evidence piece as it provides details about the incident that could otherwise be ignored. You could also rely on police reports and incident reports to create the timeline.
A lawyer who is experienced can analyze the evidence to determine who is liable for the victim's injuries or losses. A boating accident negligence claim typically involves multiple parties including the boat's operator and the manufacturer or owner of the watercraft.
A reputable lawyer is able to manage all communication with insurance companies who will be involved in a victim's claim for compensation. A lawyer can stop victims from saying anything that could be used against their case in court. they can assist victims get fair settlements for their losses.
2. Make a Report
The first thing to do after a boating incident is to ensure everyone is safe. You should then contact the local police department and submit a police report. According to the laws of the state and regulations, you may have 48 hours to make an account in the event of serious injury or death that requires medical attention beyond basic first aid. You may also be able to file a report within 10 days to file a claim if you're unable to find the boat or if the incident results in more than $2,000 worth of damages.
You should also be at the scene of the accident to assist other boats or individuals if possible without endangering your own safety or that of the victims. This will help the law enforcement officer note crucial details, including the circumstances of the accident and who was in the boat at the time of crash, and what it caused.
Unfortunately, even highly trained and experienced boaters may be involved in water-related accidents because of someone else's negligence. A knowledgeable attorney can help you identify the responsible party responsible for your injuries and seek compensation. Damages that can be recovered typically include medical expenses, property damage, and financial losses. Moreover, filing an action against the accountable person could result in monetary recovery for your pain and suffering, as well as loss of quality of life, and other emotional pains that can be associated with the crash.
3. Check for damage
After medical experts have examined everyone's injuries, and they are all in a safe location, it is important to take a closer examine the damage to the boat. This is when you start contemplating your insurance policy and what it will cover.
A surveyor will be assigned to your claim and will come out to examine the damage caused by the accident. He or she will evaluate the damage to the original described by you. They will then start figuring out how much the damages might be worth.
It is impossible to control every element that could cause a boat accident. If there was a defect in the
boat accident law firms, you may be in a position to file a claim for product liability against the company who made the boat.
In these instances it is crucial to have a lawyer who has experience handling boating claims since they can construct an airtight case to prove that the manufacturer was responsible for the accident.
It is important to remember that different types are insured by different policies. For instance, homeowners insurance will typically only cover smaller boats that have an engine that is below 50 HP. This means that airboats, jet skis as well as larger vessels will not be covered by homeowner's insurance.
4. Contact an attorney
As soon as you are secure and have visited an medical professional for injuries, you must inform your insurance company. You'll likely have to notify them even there is no police report filed. It is crucial to be careful with your information as the insurance companies often try and determine who is at fault for the accident. This could reduce the amount of compensation awarded. The NYC lawyers for boating accidents at Mirman, Markovits & Landau will work hard to disprove these claims and reduce the amount of fault that you are liable for.
It is a good thing to collect as all information you can about the other
boat accident lawsuits owners or operators involved in the accident. Included in this list are their name, address and telephone number as well as any insurance details. It is also useful to have a copy the accident report that has been filed.
Boat accidents can be a nightmare and cause serious injuries. They can cause substantial medical bills as well as lost wages and other damages. The responsible parties must be held accountable for any harm that they cause. You will not get the amount you are due if you do not consult a seasoned New York injury lawyer as early as you can. This will allow you to concentrate on improving your situation and level the playing field.