Richmond Boat Accident Lawyer

Boat Accident Attorney in Richmond, VA

Boating is a common hobby and pastime in Virginia, thanks to many miles of coastline and the James River, cutting right through the heart of Richmond. Whether you are taking a boat to Mayo Island to enjoy the scenery or you are headed upriver toward Williams Island, when tragedy strikes, injury and death can be the result. Under these circumstances, knowing the cause behind your accident can allow a Richmond boat accident lawyer to recover compensation. 

Schedule a Consultation With an Injury Lawyer Who Gets Results: Brooks & Baez

Since our firm was established in 2016, Brooks & Baez have been working to help the people of Richmond get back on their feet after suffering injury. We are proud to have recovered millions for past clients, and while these results do not guarantee future outcomes, we are prepared to treat your case with the same dedication and commitment to detail as we would any other. Our bilingual team is also here to serve families from all backgrounds in Richmond. 

Common Causes of Boating Accidents in Richmond

In 2023 alone, there were over 2,100 injuries caused by boating accidents in the United States. In Richmond, where many people live, work, and play along the James River, these accidents are frequent, resulting in serious damage to both person and property.

At Brooks & Baez, we make it our number one priority to understand the cause of your accident, thereby being able to determine how much compensation you are owed and who can be held liable. In Richmond, the most common causes of boating accidents include:

• Speeding. Each state in the U.S. has speed limits for how fast a watercraft can travel in certain waterways. When a boat operator exceeds these speeds, the risk of an accident increases, as does the risk of crashing into unseen objects below the surface of the water. 
• Ignoring poor weather. It is important that you check local weather conditions before going out on the water. If the weather is poor, it is important to return to shore as quickly and safely as possible. 
• Boating under the influence. When an individual is operating a boat under the influence of drugs or alcohol, it is a recipe for disaster. In fact, alcohol is the leading factor in about 20% of all boating-related deaths. 
• Falling overboard. A large portion of boating deaths is related to drowning, and many of these individuals were not wearing proper life jackets when their deaths took place. Virginia law requires that a life jacket be onboard and “readily accessible” for every passenger on a watercraft. 
• Machinery failure. When a boat or other watercraft experiences a defect, it can directly lead to a serious and even deadly accident. A failing boat component or piece of machinery can easily lead to unsafe operation of the vessel. 

A large portion of boating accidents are caused by human error and negligence. When this is the case, the team at Brooks & Baez is here to help you recover the full amount of compensation you are entitled to. Don’t let an insurance company offer you a lowball settlement in hopes that you’ll take it out of desperation. Take a stand and let us advocate for you. 

What to Do if You Suffer an Injury in a Boating Accident

If you or a loved one suffers a boating accident in Richmond, it is important to take the following steps:

• Seek medical attention.
• Collect evidence.
• Take photos of your injury and property damage.
• Do not discuss fault.
• Contact a boat accident lawyer.

FAQs

What Evidence Can Be Used in a Boating Accident in Virginia?

In a boating accident in Virginia, there is a whole host of evidence that can be used to prove negligence and damages. Evidence can include photographic and video documentation, medical records, professional testimony, witness statements, official accident reports, legal citations, and any boat maintenance and inspection reports that may be related to the accident. 

Can a Boat Accident Lawyer Help in a Waterskiing Accident?

Yes, a boat accident lawyer can help you recover damages following a waterskiing accident. Boating accident lawyers do not simply help with cases involving two or more boats. They can also assist with cases involving jet skiing, kayaking, swimming, wading, sailing, motorboating and speed boating, windsurfing, row-boating, paddle boarding, pontooning, and fishing. 

What Damages Can Be Recovered After a Boating Accident?

After a boating accident, there are several forms of damages that you may be able to recover. These damages can include all related medical costs, including surgeries, emergency room visits, transportation, and future rehabilitation costs. You may also seek compensation for lost wages, pain and suffering, loss of the enjoyment of life, and wrongful death damages. There are around 4.9 deaths per 100,000 registered recreational vehicles every year in the U.S., including boats.

Who Can Be Held Liable in a Boating Accident?

In a boating accident, the operator of the boat is not the only party who can be held liable. Your attorney can review the accident and help determine the cause, which can identify the parties who may be held liable. These parties include the owner of the boat, the manufacturers of the boat, the company in charge of boat maintenance, and the employer of the boat operator, if they were performing the duties of their job when the accident happened.

Hire a Boat Accident Lawyer From Brooks & Baez: Millions Recovered

If you have suffered any kind of injury or property damage in a boat accident in Richmond, the seasoned attorneys at Brooks & Baez are here for you. When you hire a boat accident lawyer from our firm, you can rest assured knowing you have a team that stops at nothing to recover the amount of compensation you deserve.

The James River offers a range of scenery and opportunities for boat enthusiasts and maritime workers alike, but it also offers risk. To know your rights when these risks result in injury, contact the offices of Brooks & Baez today and schedule your initial consultation.