As Memorial Day Weekend kicks off the unofficial start of summer, many outdoor enthusiasts will be heading to the various lakes, rivers, and waterways across Indiana with their jet skis, boats, and other types of watercraft. However, a day of fun on the water can quickly turn tragic if an accident occurs, often leading to serious injuries or even fatalities. If you or a loved one have been involved in a boating or watercraft accident in Indiana, you may be wondering about your legal options for seeking compensation for injuries and damages.
According the the United States Coast Guard, there were a total of 221 recreational boating accidents from 2018 to 2022 in the Hoosier State. Of those incidents, there were 50 deaths reported. These statistics are even more problematic on a nationwide basis and therefore, the dangers and risks of watercraft accidents are often underestimated compared to accidents involving automotive vehicles.
Boating and jet ski accidents can occur due to a variety of reasons, which often involve human error, environmental factors, or equipment malfunctions. Some common causes include, but are not limited to: operator inexperience, excessive speed, alcohol or drug use, excessive passenger capacity, and driver inattentiveness. As a general rule of thumb, the operator of a boat or jet ski is responsible for exercising the highest degree of caution to avoid injuries to passengers, swimmers, and others around them. Failure to do so may result in negligence, opening the door for a personal injury lawsuit.
As with other types of accidents, establishing liability and negligence are key components to building a solid case. Liability for a boating or jet ski accident can depend on a variety of factors, which include the circumstances of the accident and the actions of the involved parties. These cases tend to be more complex compared to car accidents. Responsible parties can include watercraft owners, operators, or manufacturers, as well as rental companies and even government entities if an accident was the result of poor maintenance of public waterways or other issues related to public safety.
Suing for a boating or jet ski accident in Indiana often involves an intricate litigation or negotiation process, so having a skilled personal injury attorney by your side can significantly improve your chances of obtaining a favorable outcome.
If you or a loved one have been injured in a watercraft, boating, or jet ski accident, contact the experienced attorneys at Hurst Limontes to discuss your legal options. We have over a century of combined experience representing our clients and work on a contingency basis, meaning there is no cost to you unless we reach a settlement or jury verdict award on your behalf.
Call us at 317-636-0808 or complete the contact form below for a FREE, no obligation consultation.
