There are an estimated 12 million registered boats in the United States. Of that figure, The Sportsman Paradise of Louisiana makes up an estimated 327,000 of that figure. While we never expect an accident or injury to ruin our day on the water, it happens more often than you might think.
According to official US Coast Guards records, in 2018 there 4,145 reported accidents, 633 deaths, and $46 million dollars of property damage. The reality is that these figures are actually exponentially higher, as the reported figures represent only the accidents that were officially reported and investigated by the Coast Guard.
While it’s hard to imagine anyone today being unsure if they could make a claim for an injury stemming from a car accident, the same is not true for those injured in boating accidents. We regularly receive calls from clients injured in boating accidents asking whether they have any recourse for their boating injuries. While every accident is different, the answer is typically yes; though making a claim for a boating injury is often not as straightforward as a car accident claim and requires an attorney experienced in handling these types of claims.
The good news for injured boaters is that more and more boaters are carrying liability coverage for their boats just like they do for their cars. In part, this is because any boat with purchased with a loan or kept in a marina/storage facility is likely required to have liability coverage. As an aside, if you own a boat, do yourself a favor and get coverage, the rates are typically very reasonable and provide high coverage limits to protect you and your assets. Additionally, there are a number of other potential sources of insurance for your injuries that may provide coverage for your injuries if you know where to look.
If you, a family member or friend had their day on the water ruined by an accident or injury on a boat, give us a call for a free consultation. In the meantime, winter is the perfect time to make sure that your safety equipment is current and in serviceable condition. A dry rotted life jacket or expired fire extinguisher is no good to anyone. Here is to warmer weather, smooth seas, and most of all, safe boating.
This is provided for informational purposes only and not for the purpose of providing legal advice.
For a free consultation on your boat accident claim, call us at 504-828-3313 or fill out the form below and we will be in touch.