Michigan Boating Accident Lawyer
Boating on the Great Lakes
Everyone likes to have fun on the water in the summer: The sun is shining, the breeze is cool, the drinks are cold. But the water can be dangerous, especially when boats are involved. In 2017, the last year for which statistics are available, the United States Coast Guard reported 4,291 recreational boating accidents. 2,629 injuries were reported, and approximately $46 million dollars of damage to property was recorded. In 2017 there were more than 650 boating accident deaths. Spending time on the water can be a great time, but things can change suddenly with an accident.
If you have been harmed in a boating accident, in certain cases you may be entitled to a settlement or financial compensation. We can help. Let our experienced, compassionate and brilliant lawyers fight for you. Don’t try to take on the insurance companies and legal system by yourself. We have the resources, skill and grit to get you the justice you deserve. Our Michigan attorneys will investigate any boating mishap case with no charge or legal fees unless and until we win money for you. Remember, at Goodwin Law P.C., we fight for you.
Boating Accident Injury FAQ
What are some common causes of boating accidents?
Like any other vehicle, boats can be a source of fun and transportation – but are very dangerous to both the operator and the passengers if used improperly. Common causes of boat accidents & injuries include:
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Excessive speed
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Distracted operator/operator inattention
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Improper boat maintenance
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Violating navigational rules (speed limits, no-wake zones, etc)
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Alcohol use
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Operator inexperience
and many others. Boating accidents can be just as dangerous as accidents on the road, and the reasons behind them can be just as numerous and serious.
When must a boating accident be reported in Michigan?
In Michigan, boating accidents have a strict period for reporting once they occur. After all injuries are treated and accounted for, any boating accident (whether between two boats, or between a boat and any other object) needs to be reported to the nearest County Sheriff, police precinct, or Conservation Officer within two days if any injuries are sustained on the boat. An additional report needs to be submitted to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (or DNR) within 5 days if the resulting property damage totals more than $2,000.
When should you hire a boating accident attorney?
Boating accident claims can be deceptively complex, but with the right boating accident attorney at your side you can see through the maze of claims and paperwork that needs to be filed. Boating accident attorneys can help you file paperwork, answer questions from the insurance company, and contact any related parties such as other victims or witnesses.
Accordingly, you should contact a boating accident attorney as soon as you file a police report about the accident. Insurance companies and other parties will likely be coming to you with questions about your side of the accident. The sooner a boating attorney can get involved in your claim, the faster you can begin answering these questions and fighting for the justice you deserve after your accident.