Boating accidents can lead to devastating injuries, often caused by negligence or unsafe practices. If you or a loved one has been injured in such an incident, the experienced attorneys at Shenderovich, Shenderovich & Fishman, P.C. are here to provide the support and legal representation you need. We understand these cases can be complex, but we will work diligently to secure the compensation you deserve.
Common Causes of Boating Accidents
You probably only hear about boating incidents when multiple fatalities occur in major crashes. However, boating injuries happen all the time in and around Pittsburgh.
Boating accidents frequently occur due to preventable mistakes or improper actions, such as:
- Boaters being improperly fastened into their seats
- Boaters failing to wear safety vests
- Boats capsizing
- Operating in poor weather conditions
- Faulty or defective equipment
- Improper loading techniques (cargo or people)
- Operating a boat while impaired by drugs or alcohol
- Failure to follow state and federal boating laws and regulations
Typical Injuries in Boating Accidents
Boat accidents can cause severe injuries to those on board. These accidents often result in serious and life-altering injuries, including:
- Broken or dislocated bones
- Severe lacerations or amputations
- Internal organ damage
- Internal bleeding
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Paralysis
Determining Liability
Both private boat owners and commercial operators have a duty to ensure safety. Negligence, such as lack of proper crew training, poor maintenance, or failure to follow maritime laws, can make them liable for injuries. Our attorneys will help identify who is responsible for your damages.
Filing a Lawsuit and Time Limits
Victims of boating and jet ski accidents have up to three years from the date of injury to file a claim under federal law. This means that a boat accident victim has a three-year window with which to file a lawsuit against an alleged negligent party. Failing to file within this timeframe could result in a victim being unable to recover any compensation for their boat accident expenses. You should always consult a lawyer about the time limit because other factors may decrease the time limit.
Boat owners and companies have a duty to their patrons and guests, including:
- Ensuring that all crew members are trained properly.
- Ensuring that the boat and all equipment are inspected regularly and well-maintained.
- Making sure crews follow all maritime laws and do not willfully operate in bad weather.
- Making sure the proper safety equipment, including lifejackets, are on board and everyone knows how to use them.
How We Can Help
Legal cases involving boating accidents are often complex, but our team brings the necessary expertise and resources to your side. We will:
- Obtain all evidence related to the boat accident, including photo video surveillance, boat owner or operator safety logs, maintenance records for the boat, statements from eyewitnesses, and more.
- Work with trusted medical professionals to ensure their client’s well-being and to help calculate the total expected expenses.
- Negotiate with every party involved to obtain a fair settlement on behalf of their client or prepare the case for trial if necessary to obtain maximum compensation.
As soon as you have sustained a boating injury, you need to contact the Pittsburgh boat accident lawyers at Shenderovich, Shenderovich & Fishman, P.C. for assistance with your case.
Support for Maritime Workers
If you work primarily on the water, you likely do not fall under regular workers’ compensation laws. Instead, injured maritime workers are protected and eligible for compensation through the Jones Act or the Longshore Workers’ Compensation Act. Both of these serve as forms of workers’ compensation and provide extensive protections for maritime employees.
Injured in a Boating Accident?
At Shenderovich, Shenderovich & Fishman, P.C., we are dedicated to obtaining justice for boating accident victims. We can help you seek compensation for medical costs, lost earnings, pain and suffering, and more.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a boating accident, contact us today for a free consultation. Call us at (412) 391-7610 or reach out online to discuss your legal options.
