Maryland has plenty of waterways that the state’s residents use for business and leisure purposes. However, some of these trips sometimes result in accidents and injuries. The following are several reasons why an accident victim should hire a boating accident lawyer in Bowie, MD.
Equipment Malfunctions
While some equipment failures are unavoidable, others are due to the boat owner’s negligent maintenance. Just like other vehicles, boats require regular upkeep even when they’re not being used. If an equipment failure leads to a boating accident, an attorney will investigate to determine whether the owner’s negligence played a role.
Recklessness
Some accidents happen because of a boat operator’s careless accident. For example, drug and alcohol use, passenger interference and speed are just a few causes of boating accidents related to recklessness.
Operator Inexperience
Attempting to operate a boat with little or no experience can be a major cause of boating accidents. Unfortunately, even if an inexperienced operator is being attentive and diligent, they can still cause a serious accident. It’s important for an operator to know what they’re doing in order to keep everyone out of danger.
Intoxication
Most people who go out on the water are there for a fun, relaxing day and, in some cases, alcohol or drugs may be involved. It’s easy for an operator to drink in excess of the legal limit without realizing it, but that doesn’t stop accidents from happening and causing severe injuries. A boating accident lawyer can help a client who has been injured due to an operator’s intoxication.
Gaining Compensation
If a person is involved in a boat accident that was caused by an operator’s negligent action, they may be able to get compensation for their losses. Depending on the nature of the accident and the severity of the injuries, a victim may get compensation for medical expenses, property damage, lost wages and pain and suffering. The size of the award depends on the injuries suffered and upon the attorney hired. With a boating accident lawyer in Bowie, MD, a victim can get the largest award possible. Visit us to find out how an attorney can help after a boating accident.