Boating is a popular recreational pastime in Oklahoma, and with the state’s numerous lakes, rivers, and reservoirs, it’s no wonder why. However, with the increase in boats on the water, the number of boating accidents has also increased. If you have been involved in a boating accident, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and other damages.
At Martin Jean & Jackson, our Oklahoma City boating accident lawyers can help you understand your legal options and fight for the fair recovery you are owed. With over 100 years of combined experience, we have the knowledge, skills, and resources to effectively handle your case.
For a free, confidential consultation, call us at (405) 221-9699 or contact us online today.
Boating accidents can occur in a variety of ways and can involve numerous types of watercraft. Below, we have provided a brief overview of some of the most common types of boating accidents.
Collisions with other boats are one of the most common types of boating accidents. This is especially true in crowded waterways, such as rivers and lakes. In some cases, collisions with other boats are caused by operator error. For example, the boat operator may not be paying attention to his or her surroundings, or the boat operator may be operating the boat at an excessive speed. In other cases, collisions with other boats are caused by negligence on the part of the boat operator. For example, the boat operator may be under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or the boat operator may be inexperienced or untrained.
Collisions with fixed objects, such as piers, docks, and rocks, are also common boating accidents. In some cases, these accidents are caused by operator error. For example, the boat operator may not be paying attention to his or her surroundings, or the boat operator may be operating the boat at an excessive speed. In other cases, these accidents are caused by negligence on the part of the boat operator. For example, the boat operator may be under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or the boat operator may be inexperienced or untrained.
Grounding occurs when a boat runs aground on the bottom of a lake, river, or reservoir. This can cause the boat to become stuck and can cause serious damage to the boat. Grounding can occur for a variety of reasons, including operator error, negligence, and mechanical failure. For example, if the boat operator is not paying attention to the water depth, the boat may run aground. Similarly, if the boat operator is inexperienced or untrained, the boat may run aground. Grounding can also occur if the boat’s navigational equipment is not working properly.
Capsize occurs when a boat overturns in the water. This can cause the boat to sink and can cause serious injury to the boat’s occupants. Capsize can occur for a variety of reasons, including operator error, negligence, and mechanical failure. For example, if the boat operator is not paying attention to his or her surroundings, the boat may capsize. Similarly, if the boat operator is operating the boat at an excessive speed or is making sharp turns, the boat may capsize. Capsize can also occur if the boat is overloaded or if the boat has a high center of gravity.
Propeller accidents occur when a person is struck by a boat’s propeller. This can cause serious injury or death. Propeller accidents can occur for a variety of reasons, including operator error, negligence, and mechanical failure. For example, if the boat operator is not paying attention to his or her surroundings, a person may be struck by the boat’s propeller. Similarly, if the boat operator is inexperienced or untrained, a person may be struck by the boat’s propeller. Propeller accidents can also occur if the boat’s navigational equipment is not working properly.
Fires and explosions can occur on a boat for a variety of reasons. For example, a fire or explosion can occur if there is a fuel leak on the boat. Similarly, a fire or explosion can occur if there is a problem with the boat’s electrical system. Fires and explosions can cause serious injury and can cause the boat to sink. If you have been injured in a fire or explosion on a boat, it is important to contact an attorney as soon as possible. An attorney can help you understand your legal options and fight for the fair recovery you are owed.
If you have been involved in a boating accident, you may be wondering if you can sue for your injuries and other damages. The answer is, “yes,” but only in certain circumstances. In general, to have grounds for a boating accident lawsuit, you will need to prove that the boat operator’s negligence caused the accident and your injuries.
Boat operators have a duty to operate their boats in a safe and responsible manner. This includes obeying all traffic laws and boating laws. If a boat operator fails to operate his or her boat in a safe and responsible manner, and this failure causes an accident and your injuries, the boat operator may be held liable for your damages.
Some examples of negligent boating include, but are not limited to:
Remember, Oklahoma is a “modified comparative negligence” state. This means that if you are found to be partially at fault for the accident, your recoverable damages will be reduced by your percentage of fault. If you are found to be 51% or more at fault, you will be barred from recovering any damages.
Boating accidents can be caused by a variety of factors, including operator error, negligence, and mechanical failure. Depending on the circumstances of the accident, liability may fall on the boat operator, the boat owner, the boat manufacturer, or another party. In some cases, more than one party may be held liable for the accident.
Some examples of parties that may be held liable for a boating accident include:
Liability for a boating accident can be complicated. An experienced boating accident attorney can help you understand your legal options and fight for the fair recovery you are owed.
At Martin Jean & Jackson, our Oklahoma City boating accident attorneys can help you fight for the fair recovery you are owed. We understand how devastating a boating accident can be, and we are committed to helping you get back on your feet. If you choose to work with us, we will conduct a thorough investigation into the accident and gather the necessary evidence to prove liability and damages. We will also handle all paperwork and legal documents on your behalf and ensure that all deadlines are met. Our attorneys can also help you understand what your claim is worth and fight for the maximum recovery you are owed. We have a long track record of success and have recovered millions of dollars for our clients. When you turn to us for help, you can trust that your case is in good hands.
Contact us online or call (405) 221-9699 to schedule your free consultation today.
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