Boating accidents can be a terrifying experience. While you might know what to do in the aftermath of a car accident, knowing exactly what steps to take after a boating accident can be confusing, especially if you have never been involved in one before. Given that boating is such a popular Labor Day activity, it would be wise to understand what you should do in the event of an accident on the water. No one ever wants the worst case scenario to happen, but everyone should always be prepared.
Additionally, make sure that you hire a personal injury attorney to handle your case and ensure you are able to recover fair and just compensation.
What To Do Next
Depending on the situation you find yourself in, there are a number of different steps you will have to take to ensure your safety and the safety of others involved. First, if the boat involved in the accident is still afloat in the aftermath, check on everyone to see if any medical attention is necessary. If anyone fell overboard, try to assist them back onto the boat if possible. If the boat broke apart or is sinking, climb onto a piece of debris and try to signal for help.
You should also have easy access to a lifejacket or have one on you at all times, so that you are able to stay afloat in the event of an accident. Remember, before you focus on anything else, safety should be your first priority.
Additionally, you should seek medical attention as soon as you are able to, even if you believe you are fine. Accidents can rev up a person’s adrenaline and you might not realize you are injured or in pain until later, which means any of the injuries you sustained can continue to worsen. Err on the side of caution and visit your healthcare provider for a check-up.
Gathering Information in the Aftermath
Once you have made sure everyone is safe and no one is in any immediate danger, you will need to gather information from those who are aboard the other vessel or any individuals who might have witnessed the accident. This information should include:
- The names, addresses, and phone numbers of the boat operators involved in the accident
- The names, addresses, and phone numbers of the passengers aboard any of the boats involved in the accident
- Names and contact information of any eyewitnesses who watched the accident occur
- The registration or identification number of the boats involved in the accident
- The insurance company names and policy numbers of those involved in the accident
If possible, try to take photographs of the damage done to the boats involved and the location of the accident. Photographic evidence can be incredibly powerful, given that they provide indisputable evidence that words alone cannot accomplish.
Reporting the Accident
Much like you would have to report a motor vehicle accident, you will also have to report a boating accident. To do so, contact the U.S. Coast Guard. The accident report they provide might even be able to illuminate what happened and how the accident occurred.
Moreover, reporting a boating accident is required under federal law if:
- Someone is killed
- Someone is injured beyond the point of basic first aid care
- The damage involved exceeds $2,000
- There is a complete loss of a boat or a boat is destroyed
- Someone disappears from a boat and the circumstances indicate a death or injury occurred
Personal Injury Attorney in Nassau County
If you were involved in a boating accident that was caused by another party and resulted in injuries, you have a right to pursue compensation. At the Law Offices of Charles R. Gueli, our personal injury attorney is backed by more than 20 years of experience and a proven track record of success. You should not have to pay for someone else’s mistakes. Work with an attorney who is prepared to serve as your fierce legal advocate today.
Get started on your case and contact our law office at (516) 628-6402 to request your free initial case evaluation. You will not owe us any legal fees if we cannot win your case!