San Francisco Boating Accident Lawyers
The rules and guidelines that automobile drivers are held to are similar for that of a boat operator. Boaters must not act in a negligent or careless manner and avoid putting passengers and fellow boaters at risk for injury. Being in "open waters” and not on land gives many boaters a false sense of entitlement. They feel that rules do not apply to them and ignore them, increasing their chances of being involved in a boating accident. In 2009, boating accidents took the lives of 736 people, injured over 3,300 and cost approximately $6 million in damages, according to a report by the US Department of Homeland Security and the US Coast Guard. If a boating accident is caused by another person's negligent or reckless actions, it may be possible for a victim or their family to recover compensation for a boating accident injury or wrongful death.
Causes of San Francisco Boating Accidents
When looking at the causes of boating accidents it becomes very clear that most are avoidable. Almost 50 percent of all boating accidents happen because of operator inexperience or inattention. Inattention could be a result of alcohol or drug abuse, or simply distraction. Environmental factors like severe weather conditions and large wake, mixed with the inexperience of an operator make for a perfect storm. Speeding excessively infracts the rules of the road and an operator can loose control of the boat, causing a collision with another watercraft or dock. In limited cases, In limited cases, boat accidents are caused by a defect in the boat itself. If this is proven, a claim may be brought against a boat's manufacturer. If you have been injured, consult with a San Francisco boat accident attorney at Estey Bomberger to discuss if a personal injury claim may be filed.
Filing a Boating Accident Report
By law, boaters that have been involved in an accident resulting in the disappearance of a person on board the vessel, injury that requires medical attention, death, property damage that exceeds $500, or loss of a vessel must file a boating accident report. California law requires the operator to report the accident within 48 hours of the incident and in the case of disappearance, injury or death, within 24 hours. If the report is not submitted within the specified time, it is considered a misdemeanor and could result in imprisonment or fine.
San Francisco Boating Accident Lawyers
If you have suffered the loss of a loved one or have been injured due to a boating accident, look no further for a qualified San Francisco boating accident lawyer. The San Francisco maritime injury attorneys at Estey Bomberger have received the highest rating from the State Bar Certified Attorney Referral Service, a testament to our commitment to our clients and the level of representation we offer. We have recovered millions for victims of boating accidents in California. Contact us at (415) 877-1334 to learn more about our experience in handling boating accidents involving:
- Private boats
- Cruise ships
- Charter boats and ferries
- Personal watercraft.
No Attorney Fee Unless We Win
The San Francisco personal injury law firm of Estey Bomberger, understands that you may be faced with expensive medical bills and rehabilitation. Because of your injuries you may have lost income due to the inability to work, and may not be able to meet financial obligations. A personal injury claim can help you recover the money you may be entitled to for your expenses, lost earnings, and pain and suffering. Because we handle all fees on a contingency fee basis, our San Francisco boating accident attorneys will not collect any fees unless we recover compensation for your personal injury or wrongful death claim.