Mandeville Boat Accident Lawyer

Due to the abundance of waterways in Louisiana, boating is a popular recreational activity for residents and tourists. While boating can offer endless enjoyment, it can also be dangerous, especially when someone is reckless.

Recreational boating accidents can lead to severe, life-altering injuries for operators and passengers. With the help of a persistent personal injury attorney, you could pursue financial compensation for your injuries. Call a hard-working Mandeville boat accident lawyer today to learn more about your legal options.

Common Causes of Watercraft Accidents

Recreational boating is becoming increasingly popular, which also means that boating accidents are occurring more often, with many having deadly consequences. Some of the primary causes of boating accidents include the following:

Defective mechanical parts
Collisions with other watercrafts
Inexperienced or reckless boat operators
Lack of life jackets and other safety equipment
Operating a boat under the influence of alcohol
Dangerous water conditions due to inclement weather
Capsizing caused by operational mistakes or improper weight distribution

Operators must exercise caution and avoid negligent actions that place themselves, passengers, and surrounding people in the water at risk of harm. After reviewing the case specifics, a Mandeville boat wreck attorney could answer specific questions about the civil court process and potential damages.

Recoverable Damages

Understanding the types of damages an injured party may be entitled to is crucial in a boating accident case. Recoverable damages are generally categorized into two main groups:

Economic Damages

Economic damages are quantifiable monetary losses, such as medical care expenses and lost salary. When the plaintiff suffers injuries leading to permanent disabilities, the court may also award compensation for home and vehicle adjustments, renovations, or transportation costs for doctor’s appointments.

Non-Economic Damages

Non-economic injuries, such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life, and permanent disability, are more challenging to assign a monetary value.

A knowledgeable Mandeville boating collision attorney could explain what damages may be recoverable and work to build a compelling case.

State Recreational Boating Rules

State laws prohibit anyone under 16 from operating any watercraft. It is also illegal for any adult to knowingly permit someone under 16 to operate their boat. According to the Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries, other actions prohibited by state laws include:

Entering restricted areas
Purposely harming or harassing wildlife
Exceeding maximum passenger capacity
Operating a vessel while impaired by drugs or alcohol
Operating a watercraft at night without U.S. Coast Guard-approved navigational lights
Weaving between other boats in congested waterways, intentionally swerving, wake jumping, or any other reckless boating actions

16 to 18-year-old boat operators must complete a mandatory boater education course through a certified agency. While no requirements exist for those over 18, the U.S. Coast Guard encourages all boaters operating within state waterways to take the course. A seasoned watercraft accident lawyer in Mandeville could answer questions about state regulations and gather evidence to determine fault.

Enlist the Help of an Experienced Boat Crash Attorney in Mandeville

While boating can be a fun activity to enjoy with friends and family, negligence on the water can quickly lead to tragic accidents.

If you were injured due to the recklessness of a water vessel operator, you have the right to seek monetary damages. Consult a knowledgeable Mandeville boat accident attorney for more information and help with your case.