Baltimore Boat Accident Lawyer
With great waterways such as Centennial Lake, Boat Lake, Little Seneca Lake, and more, there are plenty of great boating opportunities in and around Baltimore. However, perhaps because there are so many great places to enjoy a nice day on the water, Maryland regularly ranks as one of the highest states for boating accidents.
When these accidents occur, they cause some of the most devastating injuries that take months to recover from. When another person’s negligence was the cause of the accident, victims can file a claim against them for compensation. These are some of the most complex claims to file, and no one should do it without the help of a Baltimore boat accident lawyer.
Most Common Causes of Boating Accidents
There are many different causes of boating accidents. A boat operator may not be following Maryland’s boating regulations, perhaps by boating under the influence (BUI) or otherwise acting negligently. It is of the utmost importance that all boat operators understand how to safely operate a boat, and that they also understand the rules of the waterways. When they do not, a crash can easily result. Some of the most common causes of boating accidents in the state include:
- Wake
- Operator error
- Passenger or skier error
- Alcohol
- Excessive speed
- Defective equipment
- Hazardous waters
- Improper lookout
- Poor weather conditions
Even when certain elements may seem out of a boat operator’s control, such as weather, accident victims may still be able to file a claim. This is due to the fact that boat operators are also responsible for checking weather conditions before heading out on the water and ensuring it is safe to do so.
Types of Boating Accidents
Unfortunately, there are many different ways a boat can be involved in a crash, and many ways passengers and operators aboard can become injured. A few of the most common types of boating accidents include:
- Capsizing
- Colliding with fixed or floating objects, such as buoys
- Crashing into another boat
- Running aground
- Water skiing accidents
- Flooding
- Losing riders that fall or are thrown overboard
When any of these accidents happen, victims can file a claim for compensation. Unfortunately, these are some of the most complex claims to file.
The Complexity of Boating Accident Claims
Any crash involving a vehicle is going to have complications associated with it. Boating accidents, however, are especially complex. One of the biggest challenges associated with these crashes is that they can fall under the jurisdiction of Maryland’s boating law, federal admiralty law, or both.
Admiralty laws, or maritime laws, would come into effect depending on the nature of the accident and what maritime activity was being engaged in at the time of the crash. If the accident interfered with maritime commerce, it would also be subject to federal admiralty laws.
Our Baltimore Boating Accident Lawyers can Help With Your Claim
Boating accidents result in some of the worst injuries and are often devastating for victims. If you have been hurt while on a boat, call our Baltimore boating accident lawyers at Iamele & Iamele, LLP. We will fight to uphold your rights and help you secure the full amount of compensation you need to recover from your injuries. We offer free consultations, so call us today at (410) 779-6160 or contact us online to schedule yours.
