The deadline to file a lawsuit for a boat/jet ski accident depends on where you live. In Georgia, the statute of limitations is two years (Georgia Code Section 9-3-33). You must file a personal injury case within two years of the accident date.
It’s best to work with an experienced lawyer when filing a lawsuit. If you need help, contact John Foy & Associates. With over 25 years of experience, we know what it takes to win cases. Plus, we do not charge you a fee unless we win you compensation.
To get a FREE consultation, call (404) 400-4000 or contact us online today.
How the Statute of Limitations Works for Boat/Jet Ski Accident Lawsuits
The statute of limitations determines how long you have to file a legal case. Within the statute of limitations, you can pursue compensation for someone’s negligence.
If you try to seek compensation after the statute of limitations, you won’t be able to recover damages. It’s best to start working on your case as soon as possible. Otherwise, you might have to rush building your suit or miss your compensation opportunity completely.
If you lost a loved one in a boat/jet ski accident, you might have a wrongful death case. The statute of limitations for a wrongful death lawsuit is also two years.
Who Can I Sue for My Boat/Jet Ski Accident Costs?
After your boat/jet ski accident, you’ll need to determine who is responsible. Boat/jet ski owners and operators have a legal duty to be careful on the waters. If they are not careful and it leads to an accident, they are responsible for the damages. This lack of care is called negligence.
If you suffered injuries because of someone’s negligence, you can seek recovery for your damages (Georgia Code Section 51-1-6). However, you’ll need to prove that the person or party was negligent.
When filing a lawsuit after a boat/jet ski accident, you’ll need to show that:
- The at-fault party had a duty of care to you.
- They breached that duty of care (meaning they were negligent).
- The negligence led to your boat/jet ski accident.
- You suffered injuries and damages because of the accident.
You will need to see whose actions directly led to your accident. Most of the time, the at-fault party is a boat owner or operator. However, other responsible parties could be:
- Owners or operators on another boat
- A boat/jet ski rental company
- An event host
- Another passenger
- The boat/jet ski manufacturer
Recreational boat and jet ski accidents are often complicated. Since passengers are riding the vessel for entertainment, there is already an assumed risk. If you signed a liability waiver before riding, it might be difficult to bring legal action.
If you signed a waiver, it might protect a rental company from liability. Have your boat/jet ski accident lawyer evaluate any documents you signed. They can determine what legal options you have.
Most of the time, you will still have a case against the vessel’s owner or operator. If manufacturing defects caused the accident, you can typically bring a lawsuit against the manufacturer.
How Soon After the Boat/Jet Ski Accident Should I File Your Lawsuit?
You will not want to file your lawsuit right away. However, we urge you to start working on your case as soon as possible. Begin gathering information about the accident and evidence of your damages.
If you have severe injuries, try to wait until you’ve fully healed. You will need to know your full treatment costs, including any long-term medical expenses you’ll have. As long as you complete treatment within the statute of limitations, it’s best to wait until you know all costs.
When you contact a boat/jet ski accident lawyer, they can guide you through the process. They help begin investigating the accident and preparing your case. Your lawyer can also ensure you file within the deadline.
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You Might Not Need to Sue for Your Damages
Keep in mind that a lawsuit is not always necessary. Most personal injury cases settle outside of a trial. With a boat/jet ski accident, it depends on insurance.
If the owner or operator is at fault, you’ll need to see if they have personal watercraft (PWC) insurance. This coverage is not always necessary. But if the owner or operator does have insurance, you can file a claim.
If you’re able to file an insurance claim, you can pursue a settlement from the insurer. Your lawyer can communicate and negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf. If your lawyer is successful, you’ll win a settlement without having to file a lawsuit.
Where Should You Start with Your Boat/Jet Ski Accident Case?
After your accident, contact an experienced lawyer. Make sure your attorney has experienced with watercraft accident cases like yours. Schedule a consultation to learn more about the lawyer and discuss your options.
After contacting a lawyer, there are many things you can do to build your case, including:
- Gathering evidence of your damages
- Saving all proof of the accident
- Getting medical treatment for your injuries
- Being careful what you say to the insurance company
Avoid talking about the accident within anyone except your lawyer. If the insurance company contacts you, you can direct them to your attorney.
Talk to a Boat/Jet Ski Accident Lawyer for Free Today
John Foy & Associates can help you build a strong case to file within the deadline. We do not charge a fee unless we win your case, so there are no upfront costs. Plus, the consultation is 100% FREE.
Contact us today to discuss the details of your accident. We’ll let you know your legal options, including whether you need to file a lawsuit.
To get a FREE consultation, call (404) 400-4000, or contact us online.
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