Chanfrau & Chanfrau

Danger on the Water: Sailboat Accident Lawsuits

May 26, 2016 @ 02:37 PM — by Chanfrau & Chanfrau
Tagged with: Boat Accidents Personal Injury

The lawyers of Chanfrau & Chanfrau are here to help the people of Daytona Beach after they have suffered severe injuries. Out legal team is committed to the injured and their loved ones, and helping them achieve justice.

We have been discussing lawsuits involving boating accidents and maritime injuries on this blog lately. With that in mind, let's consider the dangers that are posed by sailboats when the people on the boat act negligently.

Sailboat Accidents Need to Be Taken Seriously

All boat accidents need to be taken seriously, but there is a special concern to keep in mind with regard to sailboats. Sailboats can take years of experience to really master as they are more difficult to operate, pilot, and maneuver than other water vehicles. There is also an issue with size as sailboats can be quite large, which means injuries can be much more severe when they occur.

Proper Safety and Lookouts

It's important that anyone who is on a sailboat or operating the vessel practice proper safety rules and laws. This includes having a proper lookout for swimmers, other boats, and potential hazards on the water. Having visual and audio lookout is important, and it's also important to consider using any other instruments available to ensure safety.

Proper safety and a good lookout is imperative for preventing injury and ensuring that swimmers, divers, snorkelers, and others on the water are not harmed.

The Dangers of Boating Under the Influence

While there are no lanes or signals on the water, people on sailboats need to act responsibly while they are piloting their vessel. This means that they should avoid boating while under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or any controlled substances. Decision-making skills and motor skills can be severely impaired if you boat while drinking or on drugs, so be sure to bee sensible while you are on a sailboat.

Negligence with Sailboats

Negligence refers to cases in which a person acted irresponsibly or failed to exercise safe and proper action. In these cases, negligence may be related to the failure to have a proper lookout, boating while under the influence, or the failure to follow general maritime law with regard to safety.

Do I Have a Personal Injury Claim?

If you have been injured as a result of another person's negligent actions or as a result of a failure to act in a responsible manner, you may have a legitimate personal injury claim. A lawsuit can be brought about to seek damages from the negligent party, covering medical bills, lost wages, and lasting disability.

How a Boating Accident Lawyer Can Help

Boating accident lawsuits can be difficult and confusing for people who are not well-versed in nautical vehicle statutes and personal injury law. This is why it's so important to have a skilled attorney on your side. They will be able to handle the complexities of litigation while you focus on recovery and moving forward with your life.

Speak with the Lawyers of Chanfrau & Chanfrau

To learn more about your legal rights following a serious boating accident, be sure to contact our team of personal injury attorneys today. The lawyers here at Chanfrau & Chanfrau will fight diligently for you and your legal rights.