Spending a few hours on the water is a wonderful way to relax and alleviate stress on most days. Unfortunately, boating accidents can turn a day of fun into a traumatic event. In 2020, the U.S. Coast Guard recorded 5,265 boating accidents, resulting in 767 fatalities, 3,191 injuries, and around $62.5 million in property damage. If you are involved in a boating accident, the first thing you must do is ensure the safety of everyone involved and offer necessary assistance.
If you’re unsure about your next steps or want to protect your rights, a Minnesota boating accident attorney from Schmidt-Salita Law Firm can guide you. With years of experience advocating for accident victims, we bring the same dedication to boating accidents as in other personal injury cases.
First Steps To Take after a Boating Accident
Immediately following your accident, you need to take some steps to help address both medical and legal aspects.
- Ensure safety. Immediately check for injuries and prioritize the safety of everyone on board. If anyone has fallen overboard, rescue them if it’s safe to do so. If there are serious injuries, call for medical help.
- Collect information. Swap important details with other parties involved, including names, contact information, and vessel registration numbers. Capture the accident scene by taking photos and getting witness statements if possible.
- Report the accident. The U.S. Coast Guard requires that boating accidents involving injury that demands more than basic aid, death, a missing person, over $2,000 in property damage, or a dismantled watercraft be reported to local authorities. Make sure you file a timely report with Minnesota’s Department of Natural Resources (MNDNR).
- Contact your attorney. After ensuring safety and reporting the accident, consult a Minnesota boating accident attorney. They will leverage their experience to help you determine your next steps.
What Damages Can I Claim After a Boating Accident Lawsuit?
If you’ve been involved in a boating accident in Minnesota, you may be entitled to various damages, including:
- Lost wages
- Loss of future earning capacity
- Property damage
- Medical expenses
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Damages for wrongful death, if the accident led to a fatality.
A boating accident attorney in Minnesota can help ensure you receive fair compensation by assessing the full extent of your damages. They will calculate these damages based on the impact of the accident on your life.
Do I Need a Lawyer?
While it is not legally required to have a lawyer after a boating accident in Minnesota, having an attorney on your side can make an impressive difference. Boating accident cases are governed by several factors, such as state and federal laws, insurance regulations, and personal injury laws. Without a lawyer, you might miss out on the proper compensation you are entitled to as you face challenges in calculating the full extent of your boating injuries.
A Minnesota Boating Accident Attorney Can Help
At Schmidt-Salita Law Firm, we know how to engage with insurance companies and don’t shy away from playing assertive during negotiations. We believe that no case is too big or too small, and if necessary, we can even take your case to the courtroom. We understand both the state and federal boating laws and are committed to protecting your legal rights to recovery.
Contact us online or call (952) 473-4530 today for a free initial consultation.