Boat/jet ski accidents can happen at any time. Boating and jet skiing already come with some risk, but no one expects a severe accident to occur while they’re having fun. If an accident does happen, you’ll probably need help from a boat/jet ski accident lawyer.
This article covers what a boat/jet ski accident lawyer does for your case. Boating accident cases are often more complicated than other injury accidents. You’ll need a lawyer with in-depth knowledge of watercraft accidents.
At John Foy & Associates, we have over 25 years of experience. We can help you build a strong compensation case. To get a FREE, no-risk consultation or contact us online.
What a Boat/Jet Ski Accident Lawyer Can Do for You
There are many ways an experienced lawyer can help your case.
Your lawyer’s number one goal should be getting you full compensation for your damages. Here are some ways they will try to do that.
Investigating Boat/Jet Ski Accidents
After you hire a lawyer, they’ll start investigating your accident. Their investigation can include:
- Going to the scene of the boat/jet ski accident
- Gathering information about the accident
- Interviewing eyewitnesses
- Developing an explanation for what happened
Many lawyers will have their investigators to help them gather information. Sometimes, an attorney will hire accident reconstruction experts to determine how the accident occurred.
Identifying the Responsible Party
Before seeking compensation for your damages, you’ll need to determine who caused the boat/jet ski accident. Their actions must meet the legal definition of negligence under Georgia Code Section 51-1-2.
The following must be true:
- The other party owed you a duty of care.
- They breached their duty of care.
- The other party’s carelessness (negligence) caused your accident.
- You suffered injuries because of the accident.
The at-fault party in a boat/jet ski accident is often the vessel’s owner or operator. However, other parties can sometimes be responsible. Sometimes, more than one person or party is at fault.
A boat/jet ski accident will figure out where the fault lies in your accident. From there, your lawyer will know who is liable for your damages.
Gathering Evidence of Damages
A boat/jet ski accident can cause many personal injury damages. Boating accidents are often severe, causing losses like:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Loss of earning capacity
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering
- Mental anguish
You will need to prove all of your accident damages. Some losses, such as medical costs, are relatively straightforward to establish. However, pain and suffering damages will require professional calculations.
Your lawyer will consider all of the costs of the accident. They’ll account for all damages that need to be included in your claim.
Boat/jet ski accident lawyers often have a relationship with medical professionals. They might get a second opinion or discuss your injuries with your doctor. A lawyer can sometimes even recommend a specific specialist to treat your injuries.
Determining the Worth of Your Claim
Your settlement will depend on your damages. A boat/jet ski accident lawyer will figure out the full worth of your case. By the time you file your claim, you’ll know how a fair settlement should look.
Providing Legal Advice After an Accident
We recommend calling an experienced lawyer right after your accident. Even if you don’t hire the attorney, they can provide insight into your case. A lawyer can explain the complicated legal process and what you should expect.
When working with a boat/jet ski accident lawyer, they can support you through each step. If you have questions about anything regarding your case, your lawyer can answer them.
A lawyer can also advise you on how to deal with the insurance company. Insurers are skilled at encouraging accident victims to accept less than they deserve. Your lawyer can help protect your rights so that the insurer doesn’t take advantage.
Filing Boat/Jet Ski Accident Claims
After investigating and gathering information, a lawyer will prepare to file your claim. If an insurance policy applies to your accident, you can file an insurance claim.
A lawyer can ensure that your claim is as strong as possible. This will give you the best chance of winning full compensation.
Negotiating with the Insurance Company
After you file your claim, the insurance company must respond. Often, the insurance company will send a lowball settlement offer. However, you should never accept the first offer.
An experienced lawyer can negotiate with the insurance company for a better offer. If your lawyer is successful, you’ll receive compensation for your full accident costs.
Insurance companies are more likely to offer more if you have a lawyer. The insurer knows that lawyers are not afraid to fight. To avoid a lawsuit, the insurance company might offer more to settle the case.
Preparing for Court (if Necessary)
Sometimes, an insurance company will not settle. Although it’s rare, it does happen. If you cannot get a fair settlement, your lawyer can help you file a lawsuit.
Boat/jet ski accident trials are lengthy and expensive. However, if you have a strong case, you could end up with a much higher court award. Talk to your lawyer about how they would support you during a lawsuit.
Maritime Law for Boat Injuries
Boat-related accidents are different than other personal injury accidents. In specific situations, maritime law covers boat/jet ski injuries. An experienced lawyer can determine how the regulations relate to your case.
A boat/jet ski accident lawyer does many things when working with a client. Overall, they work to get you the compensation you deserve. Reach out to a trusted lawyer today to learn more.
Talk to a Boat/Jet Ski Accident Lawyer for Free Today
At John Foy & Associates, we have been helping injury victims for over 25 years. That includes boat/jet ski accident victims. If you suffered injuries in an accident you did not cause, we’re here to help.
Contact us today for a FREE consultation. We do not charge a fee unless we win your case.
To schedule your FREE consultation or contact us online.
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