Boating is a common recreational and commercial activity, but serious accidents can occur due to the negligent or reckless acts of other boat operators. If you were hurt in a watercraft accident, our experienced personal injury attorneys at MichieHamlett can help you pursue a legal claim against the responsible party to seek compensation for your losses.

A Charlottesville boat accident lawyer can guide you through the claim process and advocate for your right to a full and fair recovery.

Who May Be Liable for Injuries Resulting From a Boat Accident?

Liability for the injuries caused by a boat accident depends on who was responsible for the collision. A boat operator may be at fault for a variety of negligent, reckless, or wrongful acts. For example, our boat accident lawyers in Charlottesville can pursue claims for crashes resulting from the following types of errors or misconduct prohibited under Code of Virginia §§ 29.1-700 to 29.1-750:

  • Distracted driving
  • Operating under the influence of alcohol or drugs
  • Speeding
  • Driving too close to other boats or objects
  • Jumping another boat’s wake at an unreasonable speed or traffic condition
  • Weaving through other boats
  • Crossing the path of a towing vessel and a person on water skis or other devices

The at-fault boat operator will generally be liable for the damages they caused, but other parties may also be held responsible because of their relationship to the negligent operator. An employer or boat owner can be vicariously liable for the negligent conduct of an employee who was acting within the scope of their employment at the time of the accident. Our lawyers can investigate the events of the collision to identify all parties with direct or indirect responsibility for the resulting harm.

Filing a Claim to Recover Compensation After a Boat Collision

Our experienced trial attorneys at MichieHamlett use aggressive case strategies to help recover maximum compensation for boating accident claims. This may include filing a civil lawsuit to demonstrate our readiness to proceed to trial. Under Va. Code § 8.01-243, the state’s statute of limitations for personal injury claims is generally two years from the date of the incident. Prompt action is necessary to avoid dismissal for procedural reasons, which can bar recovery regardless of the underlying circumstances.

During a consultation with our Charlottesville boat crash lawyers, we can assess the potential value of a claim based on the severity of the injuries and other relevant factors. Several types of damages may be available after a boat accident. Economic damages include medical care costs and lost income when injuries limit an individual’s ability to return to work. We can also pursue compensation for non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering or other negative effects on a person’s relationships and quality of life.

Discuss Your Case With a Charlottesville Boat Accident Lawyer

Boating accidents can cause serious injury to you and your loved ones, affecting everything from your financial stability to your quality of life. A Charlottesville boat accident lawyer can provide the experienced support and advocacy you need to pursue full compensation from those responsible for your injuries.

Contact MichieHamlett today to schedule a free case consultation and discuss your situation.