What Should I Do in the Days Following a Boat/Jet Ski Accident?

The days following a boat or jet ski accident can feel like a blur. No one expects to get into an accident, especially while having a good time boating or jet skiing. However, you’ll want to protect your rights by keeping a clear head after your accident.

If someone else caused your accident, you might be entitled to compensation. You should not have to bear the burden of medical costs and more. Here are some steps to take in the days following your accident.

See a Doctor as Soon as Possible

Some accident injuries take time to show up. No matter what, it’s best to have a doctor check you out. If you got medical attention after the accident but feel more pain, see a doctor again.

You must document your injuries after the boating or jet ski accident. If you don’t have a record of injuries, the other side will use it against you. The insurance company will doubt your injuries and offer you much less.

Play it safe by seeing a doctor even if you don’t feel pain. You could have underlying issues that will need treatment. You’ll want to ensure your case covers those costs.

Check for Property Damage

If your watercraft was involved in the accident, check for property damage. If you notice damage to your vessel in the days after the accident, take pictures—document anything different you’ve seen since the accident happened.

Contact Your Insurance Company

If you have boating insurance, contact your insurance company within a couple of days. Let your insurer know that another party’s actions injured you in an accident. You might be able to file a claim with your boating insurance policy.

Consider Your Legal Options

If another party caused the boat/jet ski accident, you might be entitled to financial recovery. You can seek compensation for your injuries (Georgia Code Section 51-12-4). Within days of the accident, contact a lawyer to know your rights.

A personal injury claim could provide recovery for:

• Medical bills
• Lost wages
• Property damage
• Pain and suffering

If a loved one died in the accident, you might have a wrongful death claim. An experienced lawyer can determine your options and help you get started as soon as possible.

Keep Track of Your Costs

Document all of your costs from the accident:

• Save all medical bills, doctor notes, and medication receipts.
• Get copies of your medical records.
• Take pictures of your injuries and boat damage.
• Track the days that you’ve had to miss work because of the accident.
• Keep a journal on how the accident has affected you.

You might also go back to the boat accident scene. If there is still evidence of the accident, take pictures. Anything you can record about the accident will be helpful to your case.

Contact a Boat/Jet Ski Accident Lawyer

One of the best things you can do after an accident is to contact a lawyer. However, keep in mind that not all attorneys are the same. You’ll want a personal injury lawyer who works on boat/jet ski accidents.

Schedule a consultation with a trusted lawyer to learn more. Bring any evidence you have from your accident. During the first meeting, you can ask questions and understand your options. Make sure you and the attorney will be a good fit.

Boating and jet ski accidents are unique. At John Foy & Associates, we have 20-plus years of experience with many injury cases. We have vast experience with boating accidents. To get a FREE consultation, call (404) 400-4000, or contact us online.

What You Should Do Right After a Boat/Jet Ski Accident

The days after a boat/jet ski accident are crucial. It’s also vital what you do right after the accident. You can help build your case by performing the following steps:

• Assess the situation for injuries. If anyone needs emergency medical attention, call 911.
• Stay at the scene and provide help as needed, if you can.
• Get the names, contact information, and insurance company for all boat/jet ski operators.
• Ask for the identification or registration numbers for all involved watercraft.
• Talk to eyewitnesses, and ask for their contact information.
• Report the accident to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources within 48 hours.
• Contact an experienced boat/jet ski accident lawyer to help you with your case.

Take action as soon as possible after any watercraft accident. You shouldn’t have to pay for damages that were not your fault.

Boating or jet ski accidents can be severe and expensive. Talk to a lawyer about your compensation options today.

Talk to a Boat/Jet Ski Accident Lawyer for Free Today

At John Foy & Associates, we know how overwhelming the days after a boating accident can be. We’re here to make the process as stress-free as possible. We have been helping boat accident victims for over 20 years.

Contact us today for a FREE, no-obligation consultation. We will not charge a fee unless we win your case. Call (404) 400-4000 or contact us online to get started for FREE.