Boat Accidents

Boat Accidents

Overview of New York Boat Accidents

Boating accidents can lead to severe injuries and even death. Thousands of boating accidents occur every year. A large majority of boating accidents that occur are usually preventable and happen because of negligence, inexperience, or equipment failure. Trips out to lake, rivers, and ocean can result in deadly situations. At The New York Lawyers Team, our experienced boating accident attorneys will do everything we can to help you recover from your injuries.

Boating and The Law in Poughkeepsie

By law, operators of boats must use an extreme amount of caution and responsibility to ensure passengers are not subjected to any injuries during an accident.

In New York, children as young as 12 years old are allowed to operate personal water crafts and other boats. Vessels that have more power and magnitude may be limited to minors, though more importantly, minors who would otherwise not be allowed to operate motor vehicles on land are allowed to control motorized watercraft.

Almost all areas require that operators of boats attend a safety course before being granted a license. In the case of an accident, most states as well as the federal government require that it be reported.

Reporting Boating Accidents

Under federal law, the operator or owner must file a boating accident report with the state when the following occurs:

  • Someone dies
  • A person disappears from the boat that could indicate injury or death
  • Severe injury occurs that requires more medical treatment than first aid
  • $2,000 worth or more of damage to the boat occurs
  • Destruction to the boat
  • State accident reporting requirements vary, but generally you should follow the federal mandate in cases involving:
  • Death, an injury that requires medical attention beyond first aid, and disappearance.
  • Complete loss of boat
  • Damage to the boat or other property

Reports generally require the name of the boat operator and details about the accident, including location where the accident happened, names and contact information on all passengers, losses such as injuries, loss of life, and property damages. The operator may have to summarize the facts of the incident, including date, time, place, people involved, and a description of the accident.

Boat Accident Attorney in Poughkeepsie

The New York Lawyers Team can help accident victims maximize their settlement by investigating possible causes for the accident and hold those responsible, such as third parties and suppliers. We understand that dealing with injuries can be overwhelming emotionally, financially, and physically. Dealing with insurance companies yourself can be troublesome. Insurance companies are focused on paying you as little as possible for your accident case.

When you hire a boating accident lawyer in Poughkeepsie, you no longer need to deal with the insurance adjustor. The New York Lawyers Team will guide you every step of the way, informing you of your rights and giving you piece of mind. In over thirty years, Gary Heslin has the much needed experience helping injured accident victims maximize they’re compensation.

Schedule Free Consultation

If you or a loved one has been involved in a boat accident due to the negligence of another person or party, call New York Lawyers Team to schedule a free case evaluation. Call Us Today!

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