On behalf of Rooney Law Firm posted in Trucking Accidents
They aren’t as common as roadway accidents, such as car or truck accidents, but distracted driving or operating a vessel drunk can cause a collision on the water just the same as it can on the highway. It’s not likely in this day and age that people would leave their cellphones and other electronic communication devices on land as they recreate on the beautiful California waters. Of course, many folks equate boating and fishing recreation with alcoholic beverages.Boating and jet-ski accident cases can be devastating to victims and their families. Many times, they result in fatalities. Survivors are unexpectedly facing seemingly unsurmountable challenges as they try to put their family lives back together.
California law is specific in stating that no one shall operate any vessel or manipulate water skis or similar devices in a reckless or negligent manner, thereby endangering another person or property. This can include, among other things, riding on the bow or some other dangerous position, steering toward skiers to cause the towline to pass over another boat or skier and operating a vessel under the influence of alcohol or narcotics. Law enforcement may consider speeding, skiing at prohibited times and recreating in restricted spots as reckless or negligent as well.
Victims of boating accidents are entitled to seek compensation for their injuries just the same as if they were injured in a car crash. At-fault operators can be held liable, and claims for medical expenses, lost wages and other financial needs are appropriate. On our boating injury page, we explain how reconstructing boating accident scenes and other actions can help us make a case for compensation.
