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Boating is a large part of Connecticut’s leisure culture. With Long Island Sound, rivers, and its many lakes, Connecticut offers many opportunities to spend the day on the water. Unfortunately, some of these excursions end in disaster due to negligent operation, alcohol abuse, and other irresponsible behaviors. Boat and watercraft accidents regularly cause serious injuries and fatalities in Connecticut each year.
Injured in Bridgeport boating accident?
Call an attorney today for a free consultation (860) 346-2695.
A boating accident can lead to serious and sometimes fatal injuries. They can result in thousands of dollars in medical bills and property damages. If you or a loved one has been injured in a boat or watercraft accident in Bridgeport, discuss your case with our personal injury lawyers for free today. Contact us 24/7 for a personalized consultation about your claim. One or more parties may owe you compensation.
It is highly recommended to consult an experienced attorney if you are pursuing a boating accident claim. Accidents involving boats and watercraft can be considerably more complicated and difficult to litigate successfully compared to other, more basic personal injury claims. An attorney experienced in boating accident litigation can ensure the case is properly prepared in order to maximize recovery.
Ultimately, a knowledgeable boating accident attorney can handle all the legal work on your behalf while you focus on healing and recovery. This includes determining the value of your claim, making sure that your medical bills are paid, finding all liable parties, and negotiating with insurance companies on your behalf to ensure you receive the maximum possible compensation for your injuries.
It is important to note that, like motor vehicles, all boating and watercraft activity in Bridgeport, CT is regulated by a set of strict rules and common practices. The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) is in charge of all safety in Connecticut’s waters and mandates that certain rules must be followed for safe boating activity. Some of these rules include:
Additionally, all operators of boats or personal watercraft must be certified to operate the vehicle. This includes taking a safety course and having the appropriate certificate on you at all times. Often, many do not think they require a license or certification when operating a personal watercraft such as a jet ski.
Boats, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and personal watercraft such as jet skis can pose many dangers to operators and passengers. In 2018 alone, there were 39 boating accidents in the State of Connecticut, four of which were fatal. A negligent, inexperienced, or intoxicated operator can easily crash a boat or another water vessel and drastically change the lives of others in a split second. Causing catastrophic injuries, brain injuries, or even death to those involved. Operating any type of watercraft takes due care and diligence in order to keep people safe.
Many of the same safety precautions we follow on the road to prevent car accidents in Bridgeport, also apply to the open water. Anyone who is recklessly operating a boat or otherwise fails to follow the aforementioned regulations may be held fully accountable for any serious accidents or injuries that occur as a result. Boaters, purveyors of alcohol, marinas, and associations may all be liable for boating accidents depending on the facts and circumstances.
Failing to have proper safety precautions on board a vessel may not directly contribute to a boating accident, but it may exacerbate the severity of an accident, leading to dangerous and potentially fatal consequences. Entrusting the boat to an inexperienced operator or reckless operator can lead to liability for the owner.
At The Flood Law Firm, we use our resources and knowledge of Connecticut boating law to fully determine the causes of your injuries and losses. Boating insurance is not mandatory and finding compensation where a liable party does not have boating insurance requires a thorough and aggressive investigation.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a boating accident in Bridgeport, please contact The Flood Law Firm immediately to discuss your case. We want to help you get the help you need and the compensation you deserve. Our initial consultation is always free and there is never a fee unless you are being compensated, so please contact us today to see how we can help. Request a consultation online or call (860) 346-2695 today.
1087 Broad Street
Bridgeport, CT 06604
P: 475-273-4100