Boating Accidents
Thousands of Clients Served Since 1980
Boating Accident Attorney Cavendish, VT
Fighting for the Rights of the Injured in Vermont, New Hampshire, and Florida
Boating is a fantastic way to enjoy the waters of Vermont, but a fun excursion can quickly turn dangerous without the right amount of preparation and focus. In 2019, the United States Coast Guard recorded a total of 4,168 boat accidents that resulted in 613 deaths, 2,559 injuries, and roughly $55 million of damage to property nationwide. In 2019, compared to other U.S. states, Vermont had one of the highest boat accident fatality rates, at 10 deaths per 100,000 recreational registered vehicles.
At Shillen Mackall Seldon & Spicer Law Office, our boating accident lawyers in Vermont protect the rights of anyone who has been wrongfully injured in a recreational or commercial boat accident. If your injury was caused by the reckless or careless behavior of another person or company, we will fight to win you compensation to pay for your medical bills and other accident-related expenses.
Call us today at (802) 457-4848 to set up your free, no-obligation consultation with our boating accident attorneys in Vermont.
Types of Boating Accidents
A boating accident can occur while you and some friends are enjoying a leisurely afternoon, in the midst of a solo fishing excursion, or during a cruise on a local tour boat.
Some of the most common types of boating accidents include:
- Sinking
- Collisions with another boat
- Collisions with land, docks, or other structures
- Fires
- Explosions
Such accidents can be caused by anything from operating a vehicle under the influence of drugs and alcohol to an equipment malfunction or manufacturing defect on a boat. Let’s take a look at some of the leading boat accident causes.
What Is the Main Cause of Boating Accidents?
Both fatal and non-fatal boat accidents are serious issues nationwide. The U.S. sees over 2,000 boating accident injuries a year, and 600 of these result in boating accident deaths. In Vermont alone, boating accident account for approximately 9.3% of recreational vehicle injuries per year.
The leading causes of fatal and non-fatal boating accidents in Vermont include:
- Alcohol or drug use while operating a vehicle
- Hazardous weather and water conditions
- Operator inattentiveness
- Operator inexperience
- Excessive speeding
- Mechanical failure
- Violation of navigational rules and regulation
Who Is Liable in a Boating Accident?
Who you can sue in a boat accident lawsuit varies case by case. Each boating accident is different and can have myriad causes and effects.
If your accident occurred while on a cruise ship, ferry, or tour boat, the company that owns the vessel can be held responsible for your accident. Companies that own and operate such boats are responsible for maintaining their safety and complying with applicable laws and regulations.
You can sue a boating company for damages if your injury was caused by negligence, such as:
- Failing to cancel excursions when dangerous weather or conditions are present
- Failing to inform passengers about where to find and how to use onboard safety gear
- Failing to operate their boats safely and responsibly
- Failing to prioritize passenger safety
- Failing to properly maintain the boats in their fleet
- Failing to properly train crew members and staff
If your accident occurred else wise, it depends on the circumstances of the event who is liable. A lawyer can help you by investigating the crash scene, interviewing eyewitnesses, and putting together other information that builds you a strong case, proving who is at fault.
How a Vermont Boating Accident Lawyer Can Help
When it comes down to filing a lawsuit, it is always beneficial to have a lawyer on your side. A Vermont boating accident attorney will handle the legal side of your case while you focus on recovery. Hiring a lawyer also increases your chances of receiving the maximum settlement amount. Our team has over 80 years of combined legal experience and we are available 24/7. We always tailor our representation to your specific needs and circumstances. If you’re not convinced, or have questions for us, schedule a free consultation with us to learn more.
Contact us today to set up an appointment with a local boating accident lawyer.
Meet Our Attorneys
What Sets Us Apart?
A Legacy of Successful Cases and Happy Clients Since 1980
Free Initial Consultations and a Contingency Fee Basis
Exclusive Knowledge and Focus on Personal Injury Law
Over 80 Years of Combined Legal Experience
Representation Tailored to Your Specific Needs and Circumstances
24/7 Availability and Fast, Attentive Service
See What Our Clients Are Saying About Us
They truly look after your best interest.
I was involved in a work related injury and Dennis Shillen and his team have been by my side during this entire incident. They answered all my questions and and concerns. I couldn’t have done it without them. They truly look after your best interest and put you first .. 10+stars not 5 Thank you so much
Outstanding group of professionals.
Dennis and his team are an outstanding group of professionals. I am extremely pleased with the service and representation they provided.I would and will highly recommend them to anyone who may need their own service.Hopefully I will not need there assistance in the future, but I would certainly call on them if the need arises.
More than we ever expected.
Attorney Mackall and his paralegal Brianna handled every aspect of my son’s personal injury case from start to finish. The results were more than we ever expected.