Steps to Take After a Boating or Jet Ski Accident

Boating and jet skiing are popular recreational activities for many people in North and South Carolina. Unfortunately, they are also potentially dangerous. Dozens are killed and hundreds more are injured in boating accidents across both states every year, according to data collected by the U.S. Coast Guard. If you have been injured in a boating accident, you may feel shocked, overwhelmed, and uncertain about what to do next.

Here, Stewart Law Offices discusses the steps you can take after a boating accident to protect your rights and lay a solid foundation to pursue compensation for your injury.

Stop at the Scene and Offer Assistance

Your first priority after any accident, including a boating or jet ski accident, is to get yourself and others to safety. The aftermath of a boating accident can be dangerous due to the risk of drowning and the unpredictability of the water.

If you, any of your passengers, or any occupants of other affected vessels are severely wounded or in danger, do what you can to help them. Call emergency services for anyone in need if possible. You may be able to use the ship radio, your personal cellphone, or emergency flares. If the boat is leaking, try to reach the nearest safe location.

Gather as Much Evidence as Possible

Once you are certain that no one is in imminent danger, you should begin gathering evidence related to the accident, such as:

• The names and contact details of each boat operator and passenger involved in the boating accident
• The names and contact details of any witnesses who saw the accident occur
• The registration or identification number of other vessels involved in the wreck
• Photos or video footage of any physical damage caused by the accident
• Photos or video footage of the accident scene and relative positions of each of the vessels involved
• Insurance policy details from any operators or vessels involved in the crash
• Your own written recollection of how the boating accident occurred

Report the Accident to the Authorities

You are required to report boating accidents to the U.S. Coast Guard and your state’s Department of Fish & Wildlife or Natural Resources if the accident results in significant property damage, injury, disappearance, or death. Most authorities require most boating accidents to be reported within 10 days, but the deadline may be sooner if the accident results in injury, disappearance, or death.

Notify the Insurance Company

If you own or operate one of the vessels involved in the boating accident, you should also notify your boat insurance company about the accident. Even if you were not at fault for the accident, most insurance companies require you to report all accidents as part of the terms of your policy. If you fail to notify the insurance company, it could impact your ability to seek compensation down the line.

Contact a Boating Accident Lawyer

A knowledgeable boating accident lawyer will know the specific boating laws and regulations in your area. Depending on the circumstances, they can help you by seeking compensation through your own boat insurance policy, another party’s boating insurance policy, or a personal injury lawsuit.

How Stewart Law Offices Can Help

If you were injured in a boating or jet ski accident, the attorneys of Stewart Law Offices can conduct an independent investigation to identify liable parties and uncover valuable evidence. We are prepared to use our considerable resources and knowledge to try to fight for maximum compensation. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help in a free initial consultation session.

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Top 6 Summertime Driving Hazards

Many South Carolinians look forward to summer as a time for fun, relaxation, and family. No one ever sets out on a summer vacation or road trip hoping to be injured. Unfortunately, there are many summertime driving hazards that can quickly turn an enjoyable excursion into a nightmare ordeal. The South Carolina personal injury attorneys at Stewart Law Offices want you to be aware of some of the driving hazards you may face this season.

More Bicyclists and Motorcyclists

Cyclists and motorcycle enthusiasts often take advantage of warm, sunny summer weather. But because these road users have such small profiles, they can be incredibly difficult for drivers to see in traffic. Motorists must take special precautions when driving near cyclists and motorcyclists who have the same rights and responsibilities as other drivers on the road but are at heightened risk of injuries due to their lack of safety protections.

Increased Traffic Congestion

When school is out, many families go on summer vacations and road trips. This means more vehicles on the road, not to mention the presence of out-of-towners who are unfamiliar with local roads and traffic patterns. This consistent increase in traffic congestion in popular areas substantially increases the likelihood of collisions and the possibility of needing the help of an experienced auto accident attorney.

Greater Risk of Tire Blowouts

The summer heat can leave pavement scorching hot. And when car tires come in contact with searing road surfaces, the heat causes the compressed air in those tires to expand. Many tire blowouts occur in the summer months because motorists fail to keep their tires properly inflated and in good condition before traveling.

More Roadway Construction

Roads are damaged by hard winter weather and are then repaired during the summer. More road crews mean changes in traffic flow, lower speed limits, and slow equipment that can leave drivers frustrated or confused. Drivers who are careless or reckless when navigating around barriers, workers, or heavy machinery can cause devastating summertime construction zone accidents.

More Drunk Drivers

Unfortunately, people engage in dangerous behaviors like drunk driving all year round. But with holidays and big events like Independence Day, Labor Day, and school graduations, many people are more inclined to celebrate the summer with alcohol. When warm-weather revelers get behind the wheel after one too many drinks, innocent people are often the ones who pay the price.

More Teen Drivers

Another consequence of summer breaks for students is that teenagers have more time to spend on the road. Teens are also much more likely to commit dangerous driving errors than more mature motorists due to their relative lack of experience. Many teens are also emboldened by their newfound independence, which can lead to risky driving behaviors.

Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer Today

If you have been injured in a summertime car accident, get in touch with a personal injury lawyer in South Carolina. The dedicated and compassionate team at Stewart Law Offices can answer your questions and review your case without cost or obligation.

More Motor Vehicle Collision FAQs

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