Boat Accident Injuries
William E. Weiss, Attorney at Law, handles injury claims involving pleasure craft and small vessels. Boating accidents can cause serious injuries, including fractures, head injuries, burns, and lacerations caused by boat propellers. In the most tragic cases, these accidents result in death.
On California rivers and in the Delta, boating accidents often occur on Sunday afternoons, particularly among young men aged 25 and under, with alcohol sometimes playing a role. But accidents can happen at any time, especially on warm days when more people are out on the water.
Common causes include operator error, navigation mistakes, alcohol use, and inexperience handling a vessel. Houseboats additionally can present particular challenges for inexperienced operators.
Many personal watercraft carry liability insurance, which may provide a source of compensation after an accident. The coverage available depends on the policy and the circumstances of the incident.
Boat accident claims are generally governed by California law, although some cases may fall under federal maritime law. Determining which rules apply is an important part of evaluating a claim.
If you or a family member has been injured in a boating accident, contact me for an evaluation at no charge. With extensive experience handling maritime injury cases, I can assess your situation and explain your potential options.