Ventura Boat Accident Lawyers

Serving the Oxnard, CA & Ventura, CA Communities

If you or someone you love has been involved in a boating accident, you may be entitled to compensation. Our boat accident attorneys in Ventura, CA, can help you seek the compensation you deserve. Our team at Richard | Bartlett Lawyers is here to help you with your boat accident claim. We can investigate the accident and determine how to proceed with your case. You can rest easy knowing our team is working for you.

To learn more about your legal options, call (805) 438-2440 or contact us online.

How Common Are Boating Accidents? 

According to the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA), there were over 30,000 boating accidents in the United States in 2017. Of these accidents, nearly 800 resulted in fatalities.

Most of these fatal accidents occurred on large watercraft such as motorboats and yachts. In fact, the NASBLA reports that over 90% of all boating fatalities occur on boats that are 20 feet or longer.

 Types of Boating Accidents

There are many ways a boating accident can occur. The most common types of accidents include:

• Boating accidents caused by negligence
• Boating accidents caused by defective products
• Boating accidents caused by drunk boaters
• Boating accidents caused by swimmers
• Boating accidents caused by distracted boaters
• Boating accidents caused by inattentive boaters
• Boating accidents caused by operator error

What to Do After a Boating Accident

If you’ve been involved in a boating accident, it’s crucial to take the right steps to protect your safety, health, and legal rights. Here’s what you should do immediately:

• Report the Accident:
  Contact the authorities as soon as possible. This may include local law enforcement, the Coast Guard, or other relevant agencies. A report will create an official record of the incident.
• Gather Information:
  Collect details from other boat operators involved in the accident. This includes names, insurance information, boat registration numbers, and contact details. Also, speak to any witnesses to get their statements.
• Document the Scene:
  Take pictures or videos of the accident scene, damages, and any visible injuries. Capture as much detail as possible, including weather conditions, watercraft positions, and surroundings.
• Seek Medical Attention:
  Even if you feel fine, it’s important to see a doctor. Some injuries, like internal bleeding or concussions, might not show symptoms right away. Getting a medical evaluation ensures you are treated promptly and creates a record for your potential legal claim.
• File an Accident Report:
  In California, you are required to file an accident report with the California Department of Parks and Recreation if the accident results in injury, death, or property damage over a certain threshold.

Common Boating Injuries

Boating accidents can lead to serious injuries. Some of the most common injuries include:

• Head Trauma:
  Head injuries are common in boating accidents, especially if you’re thrown from the boat or hit by an object. Concussions, skull fractures, or brain injuries can lead to long-term complications like memory problems and cognitive impairment.
• Spinal Injuries:
  A sudden impact can cause spinal cord injuries, leading to partial or total paralysis. These injuries often require long-term rehabilitation and may affect your ability to work or perform daily activities.
• Broken Bones:
  Broken bones, particularly in the arms, legs, or ribs, are common in boating accidents. These injuries may require surgery, long recovery periods, and physical therapy.
• Drowning or Near Drowning:
  Drowning is one of the leading causes of death in boating accidents. Even if you survive, near-drowning incidents can lead to serious respiratory issues and long-term health complications.

Long-Term Effects and Psychological Trauma

Serious injuries from boating accidents can have lasting impacts:

• Long-Term Physical Effects:
  Injuries such as broken bones, spinal injuries, or head trauma may require extensive treatment, therapy, and possible surgeries. Some injuries can lead to permanent disabilities, affecting your quality of life.
• Psychological Effects:
  Boating accidents can also cause mental health issues, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, or depression. Survivors may struggle with the trauma of the incident, and psychological care may be necessary for recovery.
• Chronic Pain and Disability:
  Some boating injuries can result in chronic pain or long-term disability. You may need ongoing medical care or adaptive devices to assist with mobility, affecting your personal and professional life.

If you or a loved one has been involved in a boating accident, it’s important to understand the physical, emotional, and financial impacts. An experienced boat accident lawyer can help you navigate the legal process and seek compensation for your injuries and losses. Don’t hesitate to reach out to boat accident lawyers who can assist with gathering evidence and filing your claim. With the right legal team, you can work toward receiving the compensation you deserve. Contact boat accident lawyers today to learn more about your legal options and how they can help you.

How Can We Help You?

After a boating accident, you may be dealing with severe injuries and tremendous financial stress. Our boat accident attorneys in Ventura, CA, can help you get the compensation you deserve. Our team is here to fight for you. We can investigate the accident and determine how to proceed with your case. You can rest easy knowing our team is working for you.

FAQ: Ventura Boat Accident Lawyers

• How long do I have to file a boating accident claim?
  In California, the statute of limitations for filing a boating accident claim is typically two years from the date of the incident. However, this timeframe may vary depending on the specifics of your case. It's important to consult with boat accident lawyers promptly to ensure you don’t miss any critical deadlines and to preserve evidence for your case.
• What should I do if the other boater doesn’t have insurance?
  If the boater responsible for the accident does not have insurance, you may still have options. Your own insurance policy, such as an uninsured boater provision, may cover your injuries and damages. If you don't have this coverage, a boat accident lawyer can explore other legal options, including suing the responsible party directly.
• Can I still file a claim if I was partially at fault for the accident?
  California follows a comparative negligence rule, which means you can still pursue compensation if you are partially at fault for the boating accident. However, your compensation may be reduced based on your percentage of fault. Boat accident lawyers can assess the circumstances of your case and help ensure that you receive a fair settlement.

To learn more about your legal options, call (805) 438-2440 or contact us online.