The DJF Law Firm, PLLC

Houston Boating Accident Lawyers

Were you injured in a boating accident? Did someone else’s negligence cause your injury? If so, contact The DJF Law Firm, PLLC immediately to discuss your legal options. You might be entitled to compensation.

Boating can be enjoyable. However, it can also be dangerous. Operating a boat requires skill and focus. The boat operator must follow all boating laws and maneuver around other vessels, swimmers, and stationary objects. Any mistake or lapse in judgment could lead to an accident and severe injuries.

At The DJF Law Firm, PLLC, we understand the toll a boating accident can take. You can count on us to help you through this challenging time in your life. Call us at 832-529-3476 today for a free consultation with one of our Houston boating accident lawyers to learn more.

Common Types of Boating Accidents

Various types of boat accidents can occur, depending on the circumstances involved. Collisions with other boats or a dock aren’t the only kinds of accidents that can lead to injuries. A passenger could trip while aboard the vessel or fall overboard. There could be a fire that causes burn injuries.

The most common types of boating accidents include:

  • Fall overboard – Slip-resistant surfaces on boats are necessary. A passenger could slip on a wet spot and get hurt if the vessel owner doesn’t take the appropriate safety measures.
  • Fires – Exposed electrical components, faulty wiring, and other hazards could spark a fire onboard. Without the proper fire protection equipment, anyone on the boat could suffer burns.
  • Contact with propeller – Boat propellers can cause severe injuries to anyone who encounters them. An inattentive boat operator could pass by a swimmer too closely and clip them with the propeller.
  • Capsizing accidents – A vessel could capsize if the operator maneuvers too quickly or hits a wave at high speeds. It could cause the entire boat to capsize, injuring anyone onboard.
  • Docking accidents – A docking accident could occur if the boat operator doesn’t slow down while approaching the dock. They could crash into the dock and injure people on land.
  • Vessel collisions – One boat might collide with another if the operator is distracted, under the influence, or fails to follow boating laws.
  • Malfunctioning equipment – Boats require routine maintenance to ensure they run properly. Equipment could malfunction and cause the operator to lose control. It’s the owner’s responsibility to keep their vessel in good working condition to prevent an accident.
  • Drowning – Boat owners must have enough life jackets for the number of passengers onboard. Someone could fall in the water and drown if they don’t have a life jacket to wear.
  • Falling overboard – Falling overboard can happen under various circumstances. A vessel collision, crashing into the land, or a sudden sharp turn could cause an occupant to fall overboard.

Some boat operators might not know boating laws or choose to ignore them entirely. When that happens, it endangers the lives of their passengers and those around them on the water. They must take the necessary precautions to ensure everyone’s safety and avoid causing injuries.

At The DJF Law Firm, PLLC, we know the struggles you face after getting hurt in a boating accident. We are ready to represent you in your case and aggressively pursue the maximum compensation available. You will have a skilled and trusted team in your corner to fight for you.

Common Causes of Boat Accidents

Human error is a common cause of boating accidents. Anyone could be at fault for someone’s injury on the water. A passenger could injure someone while horsing around, or the operator might cause an accident by speeding. Even the operator on another vessel could be responsible for causing a collision.

Which person you hold liable for your injury will depend on the factors contributing to the incident. The DJF Law Firm, PLLC has experience determining fault and gathering the available evidence to prove our clients deserve compensation. You should not face the consequences of someone else’s wrongdoing.

The most common causes of boating accidents include:

  • Speeding – Some people assume the water is safer than the roads. They think less traffic means a lower chance of an accident. However, speeding can increase the risk of injury, especially in areas with sandbars, swimmers, and other obstacles.
  • Boating under the influence – According to Texas Penal Code 49.06, operating a watercraft while intoxicated is illegal. Alcohol and drugs impair a person’s ability to react appropriately to dangerous situations, make good decisions, and pay attention to their surroundings.
  • Operator inattention – Boat operators must focus on what they’re doing while navigating a vessel along the water. A second of inattention could lead to an accident. Distractions can redirect an operator’s attention and prevent them from seeing nearby hazards.
  • Improper lookout – The boat owner or operator should designate a lookout to watch for dangerous conditions. The lookout’s responsibility is to notify the operator of potential hazards. If the lookout isn’t paying attention, injuries can occur.
  • Operator inexperience – Anyone born on or after September 1, 1993, who plans to operate a vessel must complete a boater education course. Anyone born before this date does not have to take a course or undergo training. Inexperience increases the likelihood of an accident because of inadequate knowledge of safety measures and operating procedures.

If someone else is at fault for the injury you sustained in a boating accident, do not hesitate to contact The DJF Law Firm, PLLC. We can investigate the cause and determine who can be held accountable.

You don’t have to worry about handling any aspects of your case alone. We will remain by your side during every step and provide the guidance and support you need. You can count on our legal team to be your advocate and protect your rights until the end.

Common Injuries in Boating Accidents

Typically, the type of injury someone suffers in a boating accident depends on the type of incident. A minor injury might result from a slip and fall, while a concussion or broken bones could occur during a vessel collision.

The most common types of injuries in boat accidents include:

  • Broken bones
  • Burn injuries
  • Whiplash
  • Paralysis
  • A twisted or broken ankle
  • Lacerations
  • Traumatic brain injury
  • Pulled or strained muscle
  • Dislocated joints
  • Loss of limb
  • Internal bleeding
  • Permanent disability
  • Psychological trauma
  • Drowning
  • Spinal cord injury

Boating injuries range from minor to severe. Some people make a full recovery, while others require ongoing treatment. Treating chronic pain or mobility issues might be necessary. Some injuries require physical therapy to regain range of motion or muscle strength.

Sometimes, these incidents cause more than just physical injuries. Many accident victims suffer psychological or emotional issues. Depression because of a disfiguring injury or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) due to a terrifying event is common.

Compensation for a Boating Accident

State law doesn’t require boat owners to obtain insurance. That means if someone without insurance causes an accident, the injured party can’t file a compensation claim with an insurance company. However, filing a lawsuit directly against the responsible person might be possible.

You should explore your options to recover the money you are entitled to for your injury. The cost of treatment can be high. Many people can’t afford their medical bills. You shouldn’t face financial strain or debt if you don’t have the means to pay for the costs you incur. The at-fault party should compensate you.

The DJF Law Firm, PLLC can help you pursue the compensation you need to treat your injury. The money you receive could cover your:

  • Mental anguish
  • Hospital and medical expenses
  • Ambulance services
  • Physical impairment or disfigurement
  • Lost wages
  • Lost earning capacity
  • Pain and suffering
  • Loss of household services
  • Out-of-pocket expenses
  • Damage to personal property

You might also be able to seek exemplary damages if you file a lawsuit. This type of financial award punishes the defendant for their actions and deters similar behavior in the future. You must show clear and convincing evidence that the at-fault party acted with malice, gross negligence, or fraud for the court to award these damages to you.

Statute of Limitations for a Boat Accident

In Texas, the statute of limitations for boat accidents allows a two-year timeframe to file a lawsuit. That means you have two years from the date of your injury to initiate your lawsuit against the at-fault party. You could lose your right to compensation if you don’t file in time.

However, one major exception could give you additional time to pursue legal action. You could delay the two-year timeframe if you are under a legal disability at the time of the incident. Being under a “legal disability” means you are of unsound mind or under 18 years old when you sustain an injury. The timeframe won’t begin until you turn 18 or gain mental competency.

Contact Us

The DJF Law Firm, PLLC will fight for the justice you deserve. When you get hurt in a boat accident, you deserve the chance to pursue compensation for your medical care and other costs from the party that caused the accident. Let us help you hold the negligent party liable for their misconduct.

If you sustained injuries in a boat accident due to someone’s negligence, contact The DJF Law Firm, PLLC immediately. One of our dedicated Houston boating accident lawyers can speak with you during a free consultation to advise whether we can represent you. Call us today at 832-529-3476.