Los Angeles Boat Accident Lawyer
In addition to Hollywood and the various celebrities who live there, Los Angeles is known for its beautiful beaches and the sparkling Pacific waters beyond them. Many residents and visitors take advantage of these beaches by taking personal watercrafts onto the water. Unfortunately, not everyone on the water exercises appropriate caution toward those around them.
If you were harmed in an accident involving a watercraft, you may wish to talk to a Los Angeles boat accident lawyer about your legal options. With guidance from a skilled personal injury attorney, you could obtain financial compensation from the at-fault party.
Establishing Liability for a Boat Crash
Liability for accidents out on the water works much like liability for motor vehicle accidents on land. Every person who operates a personal watercraft assumes a responsibility to act reasonably and follow relevant laws in order to protect others from harm. If a reckless or careless breach of that duty results in an accident, the negligent party may bear financial liability for the ensuing injuries and damages.
Who Can Bear Liability for a Watercraft Accident?
Many watercraft accidents are caused by negligent boat operators. However, there are several other parties who could bear civil liability for damages. For example, if a boat rental company rents out a poorly maintained watercraft, the business would be responsible for an accident resulting from worn-out parts.
Similarly, if a defective part caused the accident, you may have a valid claim against the boat or part manufacturer. A boat wreck attorney in the area could provide crucial assistance in identifying the at-fault party and proving liability.
Recoverable Damages for Water-Related Injuries
If you and your attorney can prove your watercraft accident was caused by a negligent party, you could hold them liable for your injuries and damages. In a legal claim, you could seek economic and non-economic damages. Some of the main economic damages available in a boating accident case include:
- Medical bills
- Cost of boat repairs or replacement
- Lost income
- Lost earning capacity
You can also seek compensation for losses that do not have a set monetary value, such as physical pain, emotional anguish, and diminished quality of life.
Deadline for Pursuing Compensation After an Accident in Los Angeles
Like all other personal injury cases, boat collision claims are subject to a statutory filing deadline. California Code of Civil Procedure §335.1 states that injured parties must file suit within two years of discovering their injuries.
If you wait too long to file, you may not be able to recover compensation. A dedicated lawyer could help you avoid missing the deadline for your boat crash claim.
Talk to a Los Angeles Boat Accident Attorney Today
Accidents on the water can be even more dangerous than those on land, especially if they involve motorized water vessels colliding at high speeds. If you suffered physical harm due to the negligence of a boat operator, owner, or manufacturer, you should strongly consider reaching out to an attorney about your options for filing suit.
A Los Angeles boat accident lawyer could provide the resources you need to build a strong case. Contact us today to learn more about how we could help you.
