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If you’re in a boat accident in Louisiana, it’s imperative that you act quickly to protect yourself and secure your right to recover damages for your losses. It helps to familiarize yourself with the key Louisiana boat accident steps to take in the wake of a crash. Every case is different, but you can expect to follow the same basic procedure per Louisiana’s boat accident laws.
Filing a boat accident claim can be an overwhelming process, especially as you’re healing from your injuries. It’s useful to have a Louisiana boat accident lawyer on your side to help you understand your rights and legal options for recovering compensation for your losses.
Why Choose the Knightshead Law Firm?
The Knightshead Law Firm is ready to help you after a boating accident. With over 15 years of experience, we’re confident we can guide you through your case. We have a deep understanding of Louisiana’s boat accident laws and court system, and we’re not afraid to advocate for your rights and needs throughout the case.
Louisiana Boat Accident Cases
Louisiana’s boat accident laws protect injured parties when another party is at fault. Recently, the United States Coast Guard reported 3,887 recreational boating incidents, including 2,170 injuries and 556 fatalities. One common cause of boating accidents is decisions made by boaters. For example, alcohol use is a leading contributing factor in fatal boating accidents. Speeding, not paying attention, and not having the proper boating experience also contribute to these incidents.
You must establish fault by proving that another party’s negligence or intentional harm directly caused your losses. It’s possible for more than one party to be at fault. Common liable parties include:
- Boat operator or owner
- Negligent passengers
- Parts manufacturer
- Rental company
- Other third parties
A Louisiana personal injury lawyer can help you identify all at-fault parties and recover the appropriate compensation for your losses.
Louisiana Boat Accident Steps
If you want to file a claim after a boat accident in Louisiana, you typically must do so within two years of the accident. The claims process typically involves navigating insurance policies, negotiating settlement terms, and even going to court if litigation becomes necessary. In the immediate wake of an accident, the first thing to do is get everyone to safety.
At that point, you can begin documenting the scene if possible and taking down as much information as possible. Be sure to talk to all involved parties and exchange information. When law enforcement arrives, give your own statement and request a copy of the police report for your records. It’s wise to do this with any of your medical records, too.
While you can represent yourself in a boat accident case, it’s highly recommended that you hire a boat accident lawyer to help you gather more supporting evidence and file all the necessary paperwork. They can also communicate with insurers and represent you in court.
FAQs
Who Can I Hold Liable in a Boat Accident Case in Louisiana?
Who you can hold liable in a boat accident case in Louisiana ultimately depends on the details of the incident. Much like driving a car, there are rules for operating a boat. Drivers can be held liable for negligence or international harm if they cause injury or other damages.
In addition to holding another driver responsible, you may also be able to file against boat rental companies, parts manufacturers, and third parties like marina owners for unsafe conditions.
Are Damages Capped in Louisiana Boat Accident Cases?
Damages are not typically capped in Louisiana boat accident cases. You can collect economic and non-economic damages to cover the full extent of your losses so long as you can prove fault and demonstrate the scope of your injuries and other damages.
However, if you’re filing a claim against a government agency, you can expect damages to be capped at $500,000. You also typically have to file a notice of claim within a certain amount of time.
How Long Do I Have to File a Boat Accident Claim in Louisiana?
How long you have to file a boat accident claim in Louisiana ultimately depends on the type of claim you’re filing. Personal injury claims typically must be filed within two years of the accident.
Wrongful death claims, on the other hand, typically must be filed sooner after the victim’s death. It’s wise to hire a boat accident lawyer to help you file everything in a timely manner and navigate any roadblocks along the way.
How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Boat Accident Lawyer to Help With My Case?
The cost to hire a boat accident lawyer to help with your case ultimately depends on the complexity of your case and how much you can recover from your claim. Louisiana personal injury lawyers typically charge a contingency fee.
This means you only have to pay them if you recover damages. You can expect your attorney to collect their fees as a percentage of your total settlement based on the facts of your case.
Hire a Boat Accident Lawyer to Help You File a Claim in Louisiana
Navigating the aftermath of a boat accident can be complicated, especially if you’re trying to represent yourself. However, you don’t have to do everything alone. Instead, you can turn to a Louisiana boat accident lawyer to help you navigate the claims process and recover fair compensation for your losses.
Our team at the Knightshead Law Firm understands Louisiana personal injury laws and is committed to helping you recover the damages you’re owed. We’re more than your law firm; we’re your trusted ally. Whether you need help negotiating with insurance companies or navigating litigation through your local district court, you can count on us to be there to help.
If you’re ready to learn more about how we can help with your upcoming case, come visit us at our office in Baton Rouge. We’re on Government Street in Baton Rouge near the I-10 and I-110 interchange. Contact the office to set up an appointment with a member of our team today.
