FAQs About Boat Accidents
Below are some frequently asked questions about Boat Accidents:
What Are The Common Types Of Boating Accidents?
Our Houston boat accident attorney has represented clients for many types of boating accidents. Some of the most common include the following:
- Boat collisions between two or more vessels
- Boats capsizing due to hitting a large wake from another vessel
- Boats capsizing due to hitting a large wave
- Collisions between a boat and an object in the water, dock, shoreline, etc.
- Malfunctions due to failing to keep the appropriate safety equipment on board and in good working order
Common causes of these accidents and injuries include operator inebriation, distracted boating, driver inexperience, speeding, and keeping an improper lookout.
When Do You Need To File A Report For A Boating Accident In Texas?
According to Section 31.105 of the Parks and Wildlife Code, the vessel operator must report the accident within 30 days to the local law enforcement agency or the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department if the accident led to:
- A fatality
- A missing person
- Any injury requiring medical attention beyond standard first aid
- $2,000 or more in property damage
If the accident resulted in someone’s death, the boat operator has 48 hours to report the accident.
Who Might Be Liable For My Injuries In A Boating Accident?
Your Houston boat accident lawyer can help you determine which negligent party could be liable for your injuries in a boating accident. Depending on the specific circumstances of your case, several parties could be liable, including:
- The boat operator, who owes passengers and other vessels and their passengers a duty of care. The boat operator must follow all Texas safe boating laws and regulations.
- The boat owner, who must maintain the boat to ensure safe operation. Maintaining the boat includes stocking equipment on board in case of emergency, such as inflatable rafts, flares, and life jackets.
- Other passengers on the boat who distract the boat operator if their actions led to the crash.
- The boat manufacturer, if it created a defective design or manufacturing error.
- The boat rental company, if it failed to train its employees or maintain the vessel properly.
What Happens In A Boat Accident Personal Injury Lawsuit?
Your personal injury lawyer will help to reconstruct the events that led to the accident and determine the negligent party or parties who contributed to the accident. Your boat accidents lawyer can build a case against the negligent parties to seek appropriate compensation for your injuries. Call us at (713) 461-6500 or fill out our contact form to schedule a free strategy session.
