Whether you are enjoying an afternoon on Lake Sedgewick or a day trip up to Lake Michigan, there is no shortage of places to enjoy the water. Unfortunately, those around you may not always operate their water vessel in a safe manner, putting others at risk.
If you or a loved one has been in a collision on the water, a dedicated Orland Park boat accident lawyer at MJB Law Offices could help with your case. Our experienced personal injury attorneys could collect evidence of the other party’s fault and pursue compensation on your behalf. Call today to schedule an initial consultation.
Common Causes of Boat Crashes
Several actions on behalf of a water vessel operator can lead to a collision, including the following:
- Speeding and aggressive driving
- Driving a boat while intoxicated
- Not following laws and regulations
- Distracted driving
Driving a boat while distracted is one of the most common causes of crashes. Like any vehicle, a driver could become distracted by talking to others, eating, or operating the boat while fatigued.
Excessive speed is another common cause of boat collisions. Unlike on the roads, there are no speed limits on the water, except for the designated “no wake” areas near places where people swim or fish.
The speed limit in these zones is five miles per hour, and there is no specific speed limit outside them. However, Illinois’ Boat Registration and Safety Act considers it to be careless operation of the boat when going at a speed that prevents the operator from exercising reasonable care and being able to bring the boat to a stop.
Many boat accidents can be attributed to driver error and a failure to act with reasonable due care. This is known as negligence and is a key factor when identifying fault for a crash. An experienced Orland Park boat wreck attorney could review a case and help determine all negligent parties.
Injuries From Boat Collisions
When boats collide with other vessels or objects on the water, people can fall overboard or face impact. This can lead to several types of injuries, including broken bones, whiplash, and deep lacerations.
In more severe cases, an individual may sustain spinal cord damage or a traumatic brain injury. Each of these forms of harm could be calculated into a damage award when seeking compensation from the at-fault party.
Possible Compensation From a Boat Accident
The types of compensation available to those injured in a boat crash include economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages cover tangible losses such as hospital bills, medical expenses, property costs, and lost wages.
Non-economic damages compensate for pain and suffering, mental anguish, and less tangible losses. In extreme cases of negligence or intentional harm, a court may award punitive damages to punish the wrongdoer for their actions.
The extent and severity of injuries will determine the damages available. Anyone involved in a boat collision should consult an Orland Park lawyer to fully understand their options.
Call a Boat Accident Attorney in Orland Park for Help
Being in a boat crash on the open water can be a frightening experience and could result in injuries. An Orland Park boat accident lawyer at MJB Law Offices could provide guidance and legal advice if you have been hurt in a boating collision.
With over 39 years of practice and trial experience, MJB Law Offices could help you understand your options and next steps. Get in touch today to discuss your case.
