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Fresno Boating Accident Lawyer Helping Clients Get Their Lives Back

With Fresno’s many waterways, boating in the area can be an excellent way to unwind and have fun. However, an afternoon on the water can turn tragic when a collision occurs. Boating injuries may include cuts, broken limbs, and even death. These injuries often result in financial hardship for victims and their families.

Boat accident Law in Fresno

If you or a loved one has been injured in a boating accident caused by another person’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation. Seeking to cover your expenses from an insurance claim may not be sufficient, as most insurance agents are looking out for their company rather than the well-being of victims.

However, an experienced boat accident lawyer can help you recover damages in an injury claim. Call Nunes Law, Inc. today at (559) 702-5124 to schedule a free consultation and learn how we can help you.

What Are Some Common Causes of Boating Accidents in Fresno?

Whether you are seeking damages for a boat crash, jet ski accident, or other incident involving recreational boats, you should first try to determine what caused the accident. Boating accidents in Fresno occur for many reasons.

Some of the leading causes of maritime accidents in Fresno include:

  • Operating a vessel while under the influence of drugs and alcohol
  • Reckless driving, including speeding
  • Operator inexperience
  • Careless operation, such as not keeping a lookout
  • Hazardous weather
  • Sharp turns

When you open a boating accident case, your attorney will investigate the accident to determine what caused the crash. This investigation provides vital evidence proving that you deserve the maximum compensation for your injuries.

How Much Will I Receive in Damages for My Injuries?

Recovering damages for a maritime claim often requires opening a boating accident claim since an insurance settlement typically will not cover the many expenses of recovering from your injuries.

Some items that will be covered if your lawsuit is successful are:

  • Past and future medical bills
  • Hospital charges
  • Ambulance fees
  • Medical equipment
  • Specialist visits, including chiropractors
  • Surgical procedures
  • Past and future lost income
  • Lost vacation time and bonuses
  • Decreased income-earning capacity
  • Emotional trauma
  • Disfigurement, such as loss of limb or severe burns
  • Wrongful death
  • Punitive damages if the at-fault party violated the law, such as driving while intoxicated

If you are suffering because of the actions of a negligent boater, you should consider bringing a claim to recover damages. Filing a lawsuit doesn’t come as first nature to many people, but it is a critical part of healing and making a full recovery. Please rest assured that our legal professionals will handle your case carefully and tactfully. Call today to learn what compensation you may receive following your maritime incident.

How is Liability Determined in a Boating Accident?

Boating accident claims are more complicated than most vehicle crashes because of the nuances that occur with water vessels. This is especially true with small vehicles, such as jet skis, that move quickly through the water. While these small boats are fast and fun, they cause problems when operators drive carelessly and collide with other vessels.

California Maritime law provides strict regulations to protect boaters and passengers on waterways. Boat operators who violate these laws can be liable for damages. Some examples of California laws regarding water use are :

  • Boat operators must be at least 16 years of age to operate a boating vessel of 15 hp or more.
  • Boats may be operated by individuals aged 12-15 if under the supervision of an adult 18 years or older.
  • Water vessels must carry life jackets according to California law, depending on the size of the watercraft.
  • Everyone boarding the vessel and being towed behind the boat must wear a Coast Guard-approved lifejacket.
  • Boating Under the Influence (BUI) is illegal and can result in criminal charges.

California’s pure comparative fault laws allow injured victims to collect damages even if they are liable for most of the incident. That means you can still recover damages if you are 99% at fault. This is in contrast to many states, where laws only permit victims to collect compensation if they are less than 50% responsible for the accident.

Reach out to Nunes Law, Inc. immediately to discuss your case details and open a personal injury claim.

At Nunes Law, Inc., Our Law Firm Also Focuses on the Following Practice Areas:

Should You Hire Our Fresno Boating Accident Attorney?

Whether you have been injured because of an inexperienced boat operator, a boater driving under the influence, or for any other reason, you may feel terrified and frustrated. You deserve help paying for the mounting expenses caused by someone else’s negligence.

At Nunes Law, Inc., our caring and compassionate legal team understands how you feel. We promise to stand by you as we pursue damages aggressively. With our dedication and integrity, you can rely on our legal team to offer excellent counsel and representation throughout your legal proceedings.

We are happy to meet with you and learn more about your incident in a free case evaluation. We will explain your legal options in terms you can understand so you can make the best choice. Don’t hesitate a moment longer. Call us immediately at (559) 702-5124 and see how we can help you recover financially and find the life you deserve.

Frequently Asked Questions for Fresno Boating Accident

The statute of limitations for filing a boat accident claim in California as of May 2024 is two years from the date of the accident. You should still consult with an attorney as soon as possible to ensure all deadlines are met and evidence is preserved.

California follows a comparative negligence system, meaning your compensation may be reduced if you were partially responsible for the accident. However, you may still be eligible to recover damages proportionate to the other party’s fault. Our attorneys can assess the details of your case to determine the best course of action.

Not necessarily. Many boat accident cases are resolved through negotiation and settlement outside of court. However, if a fair settlement cannot be reached, our attorneys are prepared to advocate for you in court to seek the compensation you deserve.

While it’s possible to pursue a claim on your own, navigating the legal process can be overwhelming, especially when dealing with insurance companies and opposing parties. Hiring an experienced boat accident attorney can significantly increase your chances of obtaining fair compensation and protecting your rights.

Yes, you may still be able to pursue a claim for compensation even if the at-fault party doesn’t have insurance. In such cases, other sources of compensation may be available, such as your own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage or the assets of the responsible party. Our attorneys can explore all available options to help you recover damages.

Yes, as a passenger on a boat, you have the right to pursue a claim for compensation if you were injured in an accident. Our attorneys can help you understand your legal options and advocate for your rights, whether you were a passenger on a private boat, a charter boat, or a commercial vessel.

The timeline for resolving a boat accident claim can vary depending on various factors, including the complexity of the case, the extent of your injuries, and the cooperation of the opposing parties. Our attorneys will work diligently to resolve your claim efficiently while ensuring you receive fair compensation for your damages.