According to recreational boating statistics, there were 613 deaths and 2,559 injuries from boating accidents in 2019. Those accidents caused around $55 million in property damage, as well. These stats alone help show why it’s worth hiring a boat/jet ski accident lawyer.
Watercraft accidents can cause severe injuries and other damages. If you were not at fault, you should consider your legal rights. Often, it’s impossible to know what you deserve without a lawyer’s help.
Is Hiring a Boat/Jet Ski Accident Lawyer Worth It?
In almost every situation, having a lawyer is worth it. That’s because boating rules and regulations are specific and intricate. You will need to know how to file an injury case for the damages you deserve.
If someone else probably caused your accident, contact a lawyer today. Speak with someone experienced in recreational boating accidents. They’ll be able to work your case from a place of knowledge and authority.
If you’re still unsure, contact a boat/jet ski accident lawyer for a consultation. You can ask questions and see if the attorney is a good fit. To get a FREE consultation with John Foy & Associates, call (404) 400-4000, or contact us online.
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How Can a Boat/Jet Ski Accident Lawyer Help My Case?
A lawyer can help you get compensation for your losses. There are two main types of damages:
- Special damages with a set dollar amount, such as medical bills and lost wages, and
- General damages without a precise value, such as pain and suffering or mental anguish.
A boat/jet ski accident lawyer knows the common costs of a watersport accident. Your lawyer can determine all of your accident damages. They can assist you in filing a personal injury claim against the at-fault party.
An experienced lawyer will also know the local statutes involving boating or jet ski accidents. They can determine how is liable for your injury losses from the accident. Your lawyer can also ensure you file within the statute of limitations, which is two years in Georgia (Georgia Code Section 9-3-33).
Documenting Your Case
After you contact a boat or jet ski accident lawyer, they will gather information. Your lawyer will need to understand the full extent of your damages like:
- Medical bills
- Lost wages
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering
The attorney will also determine what insurance policy covers the accident. If another party caused the crash, their insurer is probably responsible.
Your lawyer will gather what they can to start building your case.
Investigating the Accident
Your lawyer will also investigate the details of the accident. They might look at:
- The police report
- Dashcam footage
- Pictures from the accident scene
- Security footage
Your attorney will speak to any witnesses to the accident. Witness statements can be a powerful support for your claim. All of the above evidence can help show how the other party’s actions harmed you.
Once your lawyer has enough information, they will help you file an injury claim. You usually file this claim with the at-fault party’s insurance company. Then, your lawyer will help you deal with the insurance company.
Negotiating Your Settlement
After a watersports accident, it’s essential to know that the insurance company is not on your side. Insurance companies care most about their bottom line. They will look for any way to pay less on your claim.
This is one big reason a boat/jet ski accident lawyer is worth it. They can ensure the insurer doesn’t take advantage of you. Insurance companies often use tactics like:
- Offering you a lowball settlement
- Denying the severity of your damages
- Denying your claim altogether
- Using something you say against you
- Intimidating you into giving a recorded statement
The insurance company is hoping you’ll agree to the smallest settlement possible. However, you deserve compensation that covers all of your damages. An experienced lawyer can fight for your rights.
If the insurance company offers a lowball, your lawyer can begin negotiating. They will try to get the insurer to provide a settlement that is fair to you. During this process, you will not have to worry about communicating with the insurer.
Filing a Lawsuit
Thankfully, most boat or jet ski accident cases settle out of court. Hopefully, the insurance company will agree to a fair settlement. You can receive your compensation and pay your costs.
Sometimes, the insurer will refuse to negotiate. If that happens, your lawyer can prepare your case for trial. You can file a lawsuit against the at-fault party.
Most cases do not have to go to trial. Your lawyer will have chances to negotiate along the way. No matter what, a lawyer who is willing to fight for you at every stage is more than worth it.
Is a Boat/Jet Ski Accident Lawyer Expensive?
Thankfully, most personal injury lawyers work on a “contingency fee” basis. Here’s what that means:
- Your lawyer does not receive payment unless they win you a settlement.
- There are no upfront or out-of-pocket costs.
- Your lawyer gets a percentage of whatever they win for you.
You can hire a lawyer without worrying about upfront costs. Plus, you only pay the lawyer if they win your case.
Many accident lawyers also start with a free consultation. During the meeting, you can learn more about their methods and experience.
Talk to a Boat/Jet Ski Accident Lawyer for Free Today
At John Foy & Associates, we have over 20 years of experience with injury claims. That includes boating and jet ski accidents.
We do not charge a fee unless we win your case. We’re also not afraid to take your case as far as necessary. The insurance companies do not intimidate us.
Contact us today for a FREE, no-risk consultation. Call (404) 400-4000, or contact us online.
(404) 400-4000 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
