What Lawyer Deals With Boat/Jet Ski Accidents?

Personal injury lawyers typically deal with boat/jet ski accident cases. You’ll want a lawyer who has targeted experience with this type of accident. Below, we’ll cover some vital information about the best lawyer for boat/jet ski accidents.

Boating accident cases can be complicated and more specialized than other injury claims. While any lawyer can accept a boat/jet ski accident case, it doesn’t necessarily mean they’re the best fit.

At John Foy & Associates, we can match you with the best boat/jet ski accident lawyer for your needs. Over the last 20-plus years, we’ve helped countless injury victims win what they deserve. Boat and jet ski accidents are one of our practice areas. To get a FREE consultation, contact us online.

How a Can Lawyer Help Your Boat/Jet Ski Accident Case

Most boat/jet ski accidents happen because of negligence. Negligence is a legal term for carelessness. According to Georgia Code Section 51-1-2, ordinary negligence is the lack of care that reasonable people would have under a similar situation.

If someone else’s negligence caused your accident, you might be entitled to compensation. You can seek financial recovery for the at-fault party’s fault (Georgia Code Section 51-1-6). However, you will have to build a strong personal injury case.

A boat/jet ski accident can help you seek recovery in the following ways.

Investigating Your Boat Accident

You must investigate a watercraft accident as soon as possible. An accident scene can change quickly, and memories can fade. The more you can document after the accident, the better it will be for your case.

A boat/jet ski accident can start investigations immediately. They can help you save evidence from the accident. An experienced lawyer will also know what information is essential to preserve.

Examples of crucial evidence might include:

• Copies of the accident report
• Pictures from the boat/jet ski accident
• Eyewitness statements
• Video camera footage
• Accounts of odd behavior from the boat/jet ski operator

Your lawyer will consider all vital evidence from your accident. They’ll work to paint a picture of what happened to show who was at fault. Proving fault in the accident is essential for a successful claim.

Documenting Your Damages

Besides proving fault, you’ll need to show your accident damages. Examples of damages include:

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

Your lawyer will begin documenting your losses from the accident. They might talk to your doctor or other experts to see how much treatment you’ll need. Once you know your total damages, you’ll understand what type of settlement you deserve.

Protecting You from the Insurance Company

Boating insurance is optional in many places. If the at-fault party has insurance, you can file a personal injury claim for compensation. However, that means you’ll have to deal with the insurance company.

Insurers care most about their bottom line. The at-fault party’s insurance company will look for ways to pay you less. They might use tactics like:

• Offering a lowball upfront settlement
• Downplaying your injuries and damages
• Trying to convince you that a lawyer isn’t necessary
• Requesting medical records or other information from you
• Calling you and using something you say against you

The insurance company is not on your side. Even if the adjuster seems friendly and concerned, they are looking for ways to save money. To protect your rights, get a boat/jet ski accident lawyer as soon as possible.

Your lawyer can communicate with the insurer on your behalf. They’ll make sure they include all damages in your claim. If the insurance company sees you have a lawyer, they’re more likely to send a fair offer.

Negotiating for a Fair Settlement

It’s common for insurance companies to send a lowball offer. They know that if you take the offer, you won’t be able to pursue more money from the accident. Thankfully, a boat/jet ski accident lawyer also understands this.

Your lawyer will work to negotiate a fair settlement that covers all of your damages. They’ll know how to communicate with the insurance company appropriately. If the negotiations are successful, you’ll receive the compensation you deserve.

Taking Your Case to Trial

Most boat/jet ski accident cases settle outside of court. However, insurance companies will sometimes refuse to settle. If that happens, your lawyer can prepare you for a lawsuit.

What does a Lawyer Who Deals with Boat/Jet Ski Accidents Cost?

Most personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee, which means:

• If the lawyer wins you compensation, they get a percentage of what you win.
• If you do not win compensation, your lawyer does not receive a payment.
• You do not pay your lawyer for their services until after your case resolves. If there is no settlement or recovery, you don’t pay.

The average contingency fee is typically 33% or one-third. The price can increase if your case is more complicated or you file a lawsuit. Schedule a consultation to ask your lawyer about how they handle their fees.

How Soon Should You Contact a Boat/Jet Ski Accident Lawyer?

It’s best to call a lawyer as soon as possible. You can call them as soon as the day of your accident. The sooner you contact them, the faster they can get started on your case.

According to 2019 recreational boating statistics from the US Coast Guard, boating accidents caused:

• 613 deaths
• 2,559 injuries
• About $55 million in property damage

Boat/jet ski accidents are clearly a problem. While boating is fun and exciting, it’s also risky. If someone makes a mistake, they could be personally liable.

You should not have to pay for someone else’s negligence in your accident. A boat/jet ski accident lawyer provides your best chance of getting the compensation you deserve.

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

If a boat/jet ski accident left you with injuries, you have rights. At John Foy & Associates, we can help you build a strong case and fight for your rights. Plus, we do not charge a fee unless we win your case.

To schedule your FREE consultation, contact us online.