Boating Accidents

Whether enjoying a weekend at Pine Flat Lake or fishing on Hensley Lake, boating is a favorite recreational enjoyment of Fresno residents and visitors. Unfortunately, a weekend on the lake can turn tragic if a driver is not paying attention to the water traffic or the changing conditions on the lake. Additionally, a person may be boating under the influence of alcohol which could cause injuries to anyone on the water. Fresno boat accidents can be very serious. If a person is thrown from the boat or watercraft they may drown if they do not have proper safety gear, are pulled under the water, or injured by the boat’s propeller blade. Drowning accidents occur frequently when a boat operator is negligent or inexperienced. Our  Fresno boating accident attorneys know the rules of the water and will work hard to make sure that you receive a fair settlement if you are injured because of an operator’s negligence or recklessness.

Boating Accidents Can Cause Serious Injuries

Boating accidents can result in minor injuries or extremely serious- even life-altering injuries. If a person is thrown from a boat at the time of impact, they may drown or suffer hypothermia. Hypothermia can be life-threatening if a person does not receive proper medical attention . Other injuries could include head trauma, brain damage from being trapped under water for too long, broken bones and loss of limbs.

There is also a great potential for financial loss in any boating accident, from repair or replacement of the boats to emergency rescue services and medical services. Our Fresno boat accident attorneys will help you get the money that you have lost as a result of the injuries. You have the right to collect damages to your property and person if you have been injured because of a boater’s negligence or inexperience. 

What Causes Boating Accidents?

Most boating accidents happen as a result of human error. Around 50% of all boating accidents occur because the boat operator is intoxicated. Another 30% of boating accidents are caused by errors such as: 

• excessive speed, 
• lack of boating experience, and
• boater inattention.

These boating accidents are preventable and the driver of the boat should be held accountable for their negligent acts. You are entitled to compensation if you are injured in a boating accident that was caused by a negligent operator. The laws can be complicated, so please contact our boating accident lawyers who understand the laws surrounding waterways. You may reach us toll free at (800) 785-9924 for a free initial case consultation.