After a boat/jet ski accident, you might wonder when it’s time to get a lawyer. Truthfully, it’s never too soon to contact a lawyer for help with your case. However, we’ll cover some specific situations that signal it’s time to reach out.
If you need assistance with your case, John Foy & Associates can help. We have been working with injury victims for over 20 years, and boat/jet ski accidents are one of our focus areas. Contact us today for a FREE, no-risk consultation.
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How Soon Should You Get a Boat/Jet Ski Accident Lawyer?
It’s best to contact an attorney as soon as possible. An experienced lawyer can help you with every step of your accident claim. They can also make sure you stay within the statute of limitations, which is two years in Georgia (Georgia Code Section 9-3-33).
If any of the following situations apply to you, it’s especially a good time to get a lawyer.
You Need Help Getting Started
When a boat or jet ski accident happens, most victims don’t know where to start. You’ve likely never had to deal with a circumstance like this, and it’s a lot. You’re also probably stressed about medical bills, missing work, and more.
An experienced lawyer can help you filter through the confusion. They can help you get started by:
- Gathering evidence of the at-fault party’s negligence
- Compiling information about the accident
- Building a strong personal injury claim
- Making sure your rights are protected
Thankfully, there is also no cost to get started. Most personal injury lawyers only charge a fee if they win you a settlement. Plus, the price comes out of whatever you win—so there are no upfront charges. You can hire your lawyer at no cost.
If you’re not sure where to begin, contact a boat/jet ski accident lawyer. At the very least, they can let you know your legal options and what to do first.
Your Boat/Jet Ski Accident Damages Are Severe
Watercraft accidents are often extreme. If you have severe injuries and other costs, you’ll need a lawyer’s help. Contact an experienced attorney right away.
You will probably have damages like:
- Doctor or hospital bills
- Prescription medications
- Lost wages from missing work time
- Loss of earning capacity
- Non-economic damages like pain and suffering
If you have severe costs, you’ll need to ensure your settlement is high enough. A lawyer can account for all losses from your accident, including future medical treatment.
The compensation you receive should “make you whole” as fully as possible. In other words, a settlement should leave you in the same financial position you were before the accident. Without an attorney, it can be complicated to ensure you’re getting full compensation.
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Responsibility for the Accident Is Complicated or Unclear
Most of the time, one person or party is fully responsible for a boat/jet ski accident. However, the fault is sometimes unclear or messy. If you need help determining fault in your accident, contact a lawyer.
The at-fault party in a boat or jet ski accident could be any of the following:
- The boat’s owner
- The boat’s operator
- A manufacturing company
- A rental company
- An event host
- Another passenger on the boat/jet ski
Sometimes, the victim is also partially at fault. Although it’s rare for a boat/jet ski accident, talk to a lawyer if you’re worried about your responsibility in the accident. Any partial fault could affect your compensation potential.
If more than one party is at fault, you might need to file more than one case. An attorney can look at the situation and help you know what to do. They can also help you build each case to seek compensation.
Your Injuries Prevent You from Working
Most injury accidents will cause you to miss some work time. You’ll need to handle the accident details and heal from your injuries. Sometimes, an injury affects your ability to work long-term.
If you cannot work in the same capacity as before, it will impact your compensation. You can probably claim “loss of earning capacity” damages. A lawyer can help you calculate these losses as accurately as possible.
You don’t Want the Insurance Company to Take Advantage
Insurance companies do not make personal injury claims easy. They care most about their bottom lines, and they will look for ways to pay you less. It’s best to get a lawyer as soon as possible to protect your legal rights.
Insurance companies often use tactics like:
- Doubting your injuries and damages
- Offering you a meager settlement
- Trying to use something you say against you
- Asking you to give a recorded statement or sign away your rights
Most accident victims have never had to deal with an insurance claim before — and insurance adjusters know that. They will try to take advantage of your vulnerable state after the accident.
If you have an experienced lawyer on your side, they can communicate with the insurer for you. You can focus on healing while your attorney handles the legal side of things.
Also, insurance is not always available after a boat/jet ski accident. Not all boat owners have to carry insurance, and some will not have it. If the at-fault party has no insurance, you might have to bring a lawsuit for the compensation you deserve. Your lawyer can help in this area, too.
Talk to a Boat/Jet Ski Accident Lawyer for Free Today
If you’re not sure how to handle the aftermath of a boat/jet ski accident, it’s a sign you need a lawyer. At John Foy & Associates, we will not charge you unless we win your case. Plus, the consultation is always FREE.
To discuss your case with a lawyer at no risk, contact us today. We bring over 20 years of experience to the table, and we’re here to help.
To get a FREE, no-risk consultation, contact us online.
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