Boating accidents are more common in and around Oakdale, Long Island than in many parts of our state, due to the large number of watercraft registered in Suffolk County. In addition to the Atlantic, the most common sites of boat accidents in Suffolk County are Great South Bay, Nicoli Bay, and the Connetquot River.
After an accident on the water, your injuries may prevent you from returning to work. Your medical bills may start to pile up, and you may not have access to the care you need to recover. A boating accident lawyer in Oakdale, Long Island can help.
If someone else’s negligence caused you or a loved one to sustain serious injuries, call Gacovino, Lake & Associates, P.C. today at 631-600-0000 for help.
How Can a Boating Accident Lawyer Help You?
Assuming the at-fault individual had insurance at the time of the accident, your lawyer will file your claim with their insurance company.
To prepare your claim, your lawyer will obtain supporting documents that demonstrate the facts of the accident and support negligence on the at-fault party.
Evidence may include photos of the accident scene, statements from witnesses, accident reports, subject matter expert testimony and, if necessary, a professional recreation of the boating accident scene.
To substantiate the amount of your actual damages, your attorney will include your medical bills and other items as described above, that support the total value of your claim.
The insurance company will focus on trying to minimize its losses rather than compensating you for your injuries. For instance, it may attempt to offer a lowball settlement, in the hope that you will sign away your legal rights in exchange for a quick payout. It is critical that you do not speak with the insurance company, provide a statement, or sign any documents without first consulting your attorney.
Finally, if the insurance company refuses to negotiate in good faith, your boating accident lawyer may recommend filing a lawsuit and taking your case to court.
How Much Is Your Boating Accident Claim Worth?
The basis of your injury accident claim lies in the nature and extent of your injuries, and your prognosis for recovery.
To determine the value of your claim, your boating accident lawyer will determine your expenses and costs to date, including:
- Doctor or hospital bills
- Lost income to date
- Damage to your boat
- Towing and other actual expenses
Your lawyer will also include the value of any long-term or permanent disability you may have sustained.
To calculate the costs of your future care and treatment needs your lawyer will obtain information and testimony from doctors and medical experts. Your lawyer will include your estimated future lost wages, pain and suffering, and lost life enjoyment.
Finally, if you sustained any long-term disability or permanent injuries, your attorney will include the value of your loss as a part of your claim.
Although no settlement can make up for paralysis or the loss of a limb, financial compensation will ensure that you have the care and treatment you need in the future and that you will be able to keep a roof over your head.
Who Is Responsible for Most Oakdale Boating Accidents?
In Oakdale, the most common causes of boating collisions are operator inattention and inexperience, according to the New York Parks Department.
Some of the other common causes of boat crashes include:
- Alcohol use
- Drug use
- Excessive speed
- Violating maritime rules
- Overloading the boat
- Careless or reckless operation
Most of these incidents involve a negligent operator or owner. If negligence caused your accident and injuries, you might have a legal claim for compensation.
Watercraft operators have a legal obligation to use reasonable care on the water, to avoid harming other people on or in the water. If an operator fails to uphold that duty and subsequently causes an accident, they are liable for any damages that result.
Some of the most common injuries that result from boat accidents include:
- Back and spinal cord injuries
- Head injuries
- Brain damage
- Fractures and broken bones
- Internal injuries
- Paralysis
- Amputation
- Hypothermia
- Drowning
Many of the most severe injuries sustained in Oakdale boating accidents involve full or partial paralysis and long-term disability, due to the impact that can result from hitting the water at a high rate of speed.
A boating accident lawyer understands how to build a case to prove negligence, and how to uncover the evidence necessary to support your claim.
What About Other Types Boating Accidents on Long Island?
Not all Oakdale, Long Island, boating accidents involve traditional motorized watercraft.
If your injuries occurred on a commercial vessel while you were a passenger or at work, a boating accident lawyer would understand how to apply the unique maritime laws that govern those incidents.
Jet skis, rafts, kayaks, and canoes all contribute to injury accidents in and around Oakdale and Long Island. Hypothermia and drowning would be very real possibilities if you or a loved one experienced a boat accident involving one of these smaller vessels or personal watercraft.
A boating accident lawyer can help you make sense of your options and, if someone else’s negligence caused or contributed to the incident, your attorney could help you pursue appropriate damages.
Consult a Boating Accident Lawyer in Oakdale, Long Island at No Cost
The attorneys of Gacovino, Lake & Associates, P.C. offer a complimentary consultation and case review to Oakdale, Long Island, boat accident victims and their families. We can answer your questions and explain your options for pursuing an injury accident claim. Contact us today at 631-600-0000 to schedule an appointment.
