Our team of charter vessel accident attorneys has 187 years of combined experience in maritime law. We are the go-to choice for those hurt or who have lost loved ones in these accidents. Our firm is among the “Best Law Firms” ® by US News & World Report every year since 20161. We’ve won over $450 million for our clients since 19711.
Charter vessel accidents can be very serious. The Gabon Ferry Disaster, for example, took at least 30 lives1. The Cathlamet ferry accident near Seattle caused $7.7 million in damages1. Even small incidents, like the ferry accident in New York City, can cause harm1. Our maritime injury lawyers are here to protect your rights and get you the compensation you deserve.
Key Takeaways
- Our charter vessel accident attorneys have a combined 187 years of experience in maritime law.
- We have been recognized as one of the “Best Law Firms” ® by US News & World Report every year since 2016.
- Our firm has won over $450 million in compensation for clients since 1971.
- We handle a wide range of charter vessel accident cases, including those involving collisions, uneven decks, and man overboard incidents.
- We are committed to providing compassionate and skilled legal representation to individuals and families affected by these tragic incidents.
Understanding the Complexities of Charter Vessel Accidents
The boating industry is growing fast, and so are the challenges of charter vessel accidents2. These issues often stem from different safety and maintenance standards. They also come from not knowing how to use the vessel’s systems.
Varying Standards of Maintenance and Safety
Charter vessels are run by different people, leading to uneven safety levels2. Some owners follow strict safety rules, while others might not. This can cause equipment problems or dangerous situations on the boat2.
This unevenness raises the risk of accidents at sea. It puts the crew and passengers in danger.
Unfamiliarity with Vessel Systems and Procedures
When a charterer takes over a boat, the crew might not know its systems well2. This can lead to mistakes and make the boat less safe and efficient2. If the crew isn’t trained well, they might not handle emergencies right.
Dealing with charter vessel accidents needs a good grasp of maritime law3. We must tackle the safety and maintenance issues and the crew’s lack of knowledge. This way, we can make the charter boat industry safer and more reliable.
“Negligence is a common factor in boating accidents, and liability can extend to the boat’s owner, operator, or even the manufacturer if equipment failures or unsafe conditions contribute to an incident.”2
| Accident Type | Potential Causes | Liability Factors |
|---|---|---|
| Collisions | Right of way violations, lack of proper lookout, navigational errors | Operator negligence, failure to follow maritime rules |
| Equipment Failures | Engine malfunctions, structural issues, lack of maintenance | Manufacturer defects, maintenance provider negligence |
| Operator Error | Inexperience, intoxication, distractions | Lack of training, vessel owner/charterer liability |
| Environmental Factors | Adverse weather, navigational hazards | Failure to respond appropriately to conditions |
By understanding charter vessel accidents, we can fix the problems and make the industry safer3. We should push for consistent safety checks, train the crew well, and make sure everyone on the boat is safe23.
Common Causes of Charter Boat Accidents and Injuries
Understanding the reasons behind charter boat accidents is key to getting justice and compensation. Rented boats with more than six passengers are at higher risk of accidents than private boats4.
Collisions and Allisions
Collisions with other boats or hitting fixed objects are common causes of accidents. These happen due to reckless driving, boating while drunk, or inexperienced captains. They also occur when ignoring Coast Guard rules, being distracted, or driving too close to others4.
Inadequate Training and Safety Measures
Not enough training and safety steps are another big reason for accidents. Most accidents come from the captain or owner’s negligence4. Poor safety gear, too much weight on the boat, and ignoring laws can all be dangerous.
Defective Equipment and Unsafe Conditions
Defective gear or unsafe conditions can also cause accidents. Owners can be blamed for injuries like cuts, falls, or burns from explosions4. Keeping the boat in good shape and checking it regularly is essential for safety.
Knowing why charter boat accidents happen helps passengers protect their rights and get fair compensation. BOATLAW, LLP has helped those hurt at sea for 40 years4.
| Common Causes of Charter Boat Accidents | Key Factors |
|---|---|
| Collisions and Allisions |
|
| Inadequate Training and Safety Measures |
|
| Defective Equipment and Unsafe Conditions |
|
“Tour boat and charter vessel accidents are much more common than they should be.”5
charter vessel accident attorney: Protecting Your Rights
If you’ve been in a charter vessel accident, get medical help right away. Your medical records are key to your recovery. They help figure out how much your claim is worth6. Also, you must report the accident to the Coast Guard quickly6.
Seeking Medical Attention and Reporting the Incident
Your health is most important after a charter vessel accident. Getting medical care quickly is good for your health and for your case6. After medical help, report the accident to the Coast Guard. This makes an official record of the accident, which is good for your case6.
Consulting with Experienced Maritime Lawyers
If you were hurt in a charter vessel accident, you might get compensation for your costs and lost wages. Talking to a maritime lawyer can help you know your rights and what to do next6. They know the laws and can guide you through the legal process to get the compensation you deserve6.
At GJEL law firm, our team has helped many people get fair compensation6. We’ve won 99% of our boating accident cases and have gotten over $950 Million for our clients6. If you were hurt in a charter vessel accident, we can help protect your rights and get you the compensation you need6.
“Boating accidents can lead to around 800 deaths and over 8,000 injuries annually. If injured in a boating accident due to someone else’s negligence, you may claim for damages like medical bills, pain and suffering, lost wages, property damage.”
Conclusion
Having an experienced maritime attorney is key in charter vessel accidents. These cases are complex, and you need protection and fair compensation7. Our firm has a long history of success in these cases and fights for our clients’ rights8.
With strict safety rules, like USCG-approved life jackets, it’s vital to address any violations or negligence. This ensures justice for those hurt in charter vessel accidents.
If you’ve been hurt in a charter vessel accident, contact us for a free consultation7. Our team will investigate, find who’s at fault, and make sure you get the compensation you deserve. We know how tough these cases can be and aim to provide top-notch legal help.
Our main goal is to guide you through the legal process and protect your rights after an accident. We’ll fight for you, whether it’s due to a collision, bad training, or faulty equipment87. Reach out to us today to see how we can help.
FAQ
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Source Links
- Ferry and Charter Vessel Accident Attorney – LM&W, PA – https://www.lipcon.com/ferry-accidents/
- Boating Accident | Fielding Law Firm • Serving California and Arizona – https://fieldinglawfirm.com/boating-accident/
- San Diego Boat Accident Lawyers – https://therawlinsfirm.com/san-diego-boat-accident-lawyer/
- Need Compensation for a Charter Boat Accident on the Pacific Coast? – https://www.boatlaw.com/admiralty-and-maritime-law/charter-boat-accidents/
- What to Do When Injured in a Tour Boat or Charter Vessel Accident – https://www.braislaw.com/blog/what-to-do-if-you-were-injured-in-a-tour-boat-or-charter-vessel-accident/
- California Boat Accident Lawyers: GJEL Fights for Justice – https://www.gjel.com/boat-accident-lawyers
- Who is Liable in a Boating Accident That Occurs in a Marina? – https://www.rivkindlaw.com/who-is-liable-boating-accident-occurs-in-marina/
- Boating/Shipping Accidents Attorneys in Long Island, NY – RRS Lawyers – https://rrslawyers.com/en/practiceareas/boating-watercraft-accidents/