Most people consider boats to be an enjoyable and relaxing method of transportation, but if you or a loved one has been injured or killed in a boating accident, you might have a different opinion. More than 700 people die in boating accidents every year, a testament to just how dangerous vessels can be. If you were injured or lost a loved one in a boating accident, please contact a skilled Chicago boating accident attorney from The Law Office of Your Chicago Accident Attorney.
The most frequent injuries seen in boating accidents are lacerations, burn injuries, broken bones, concussions, brain trauma, spinal cord damage, drowning injuries and damage to internal organs. These injuries are very traumatizing and serious and anyone who undergoes treatment to heal them will incur expensive medical bills. This is why a Chicago accident attorney is so important to anyone who has been victimized by a boating accident.
One of the most dangerous things a boat operator can do is drink. This act is illegal and responsible for over 20% of all boating accident deaths. If you have been victimized by a drunken boat operator, you might be eligible for punitive damages on top of the medical expenses and other damages you will already be receiving for your accident lawsuit in the state of Illinois.
Other reasons for boating accidents include speeding, reckless operation, operator inexperience, equipment failure and poor weather. When the boat is not properly equipped with safety gear, the dangers are increased exponentially. Your Chicago accident attorney may be able to use a lack of proper equipment on the boat to your advantage when it comes to maximizing your settlement, as this fact points to a high level of negligence on the part of the boat owner.
If you or a loved one was killed or injured in a boating accident, please call our offices and schedule a free initial consultation with a skilled Chicago accident lawyer.