Newport Beach residents and visitors are quick to get out on the water. But boating accidents are shockingly common and can result in serious injuries. If you or a loved one suffer injuries caused by watercraft incidents, we can help. Contact a Newport Beach boat accident lawyer at Bisnar Chase for superior representation.
We cover everything you need to know about filing a boat accident lawsuit, including:
- What is the most common boat accident?
- How do you respond to a boating accident?
- Can an attorney help you win compensation for a boating injury?
Orange County is home to stunning bays and beaches that make it a top destination. In particular, the Newport Beach peninsula harbor and coast are always packed with people. From large yachts and paddleboards to Duffy Boat rentals, we have it all.
If you suffer an injury that you believe was caused by negligence, our boating accident attorneys in Newport Beach can help you secure the compensation you deserve. Contact us now at (949) 203-3814 for a free consultation.
Newport Beach Watercraft Accident Resources
Newport Beach Boating Accidents
Newport Beach is a major destination for water lovers. We have the benefit of great weather that allows for year-round boating.
The numbers speak for themselves. Newport Harbor is home to more than 10,000 recreational crafts.
Better yet, you do not have to be rich and live on the water to enjoy it. There are rental facilities offering everything from luxury yachts to affordable Duffy Boats. We also have the Balboa Island Ferry carrying cars and passengers on constant trips across the harbor.
With so many vessels around, there are dangers. The ocean can be unforgiving, with dangerous tides and conditions. Man-made bodies of water can be just as dangerous too. A boating accident can involve:
- A person suffering an injury on a boat, such as a slip-and-fall accident.
- Someone falling overboard.
- A boat colliding with another vessel.
- Injuries suffered in the dock or marina as people get on or off a boat.
- A boat colliding with others in the water, such as a swimmer.
- The vessel capsizing.
As you can see, it is easy for someone to suffer a boating injury in Newport Beach. You deal with slippery conditions, unpredictable craft routes, constant boat movement, rough waters, and more.
Any type of boat can be involved in an accident. For example:
- Yacht accidents.
- Rental boat accidents.
- Duffy boat accidents.
- Pontoon boat accidents.
- Catamaran boat accidents.
- Ferry accidents.
- Raft and dinghy accidents.
When you suffer an injury on the water in Newport Beach, you need expert legal representation. Contact our watercraft accident attorneys now for a free case review.
Other Watercraft Accidents in Newport Beach, CA
You are not only in danger if you are on a boat. Any water activity can carry similar risks, including all water sports.
For example, many people swim in the ocean off the Newport coast. They will swim out from beaches, around Newport Beach pier, and even from smaller beaches into the harbor area.
It is not uncommon to see people on the harbor side swimming out into the path of boats. Unfortunately, it can be difficult for a vessel operator to spot swimmers in the water, especially when the craft is traveling quickly.
People may also be at risk of injury if they are:
- Using a Sea-Doo or jet ski.
- Paddleboarding.
- Surfing or bodyboarding.
- Parasailing.
- Using a water jetpack.
- Kayaking.
When you or a loved one suffers an injury in a water-based incident involving negligence in Orange County, our team will fight for you.
Boating Accidents Nationwide
The U.S. Coast Guard reported 4,463 boating accidents nationwide in 2018. These accidents resulted in 633 deaths, 2,511 injuries, and nearly $46 million in property damage.
The leading causes of boating accidents were operator inattention, improper lookout, operator inexperience, excessive speed, and alcohol use.
78% of fatal boating accident victims drowned, and 85% were not wearing a life jacket. 90% of boating accident victims who drowned were using a vessel less than 21 feet in length.
These statistics underscore the importance of taking basic safety precautions when boating, such as paying attention to your surroundings, wearing a life jacket, and avoiding alcohol. Following these simple tips can help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone on the water.
Common Causes of Boating Accidents
A boat accident can occur for all kinds of reasons. Often, it will result in one or multiple people suffering a personal injury. Common causes of boating accidents include:
- Operating a boat at excessive speeds for the conditions.
- Inexperienced drivers, especially with rental crafts.
- Making sharp turns or unsafe maneuvers.
- Boating under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol.
- Distracted driving, failing to take proper care or be aware of surroundings.
- A lack of knowledge of waterway rules and laws.
- No safety equipment, such as life jackets, distress signals, and fire extinguishers.
- Poor craft maintenance.
- Equipment failures.
The examples above are all forms of negligence. You may be entitled to compensation when you suffer an injury due to negligence. Contact our boat accident lawyers today for a free consultation.
Boating Accident Injuries
The type of injuries you sustain in a boating accident in Orange County will depend on the manner and circumstances of the incident. Injuries can include:
- Soft tissue injuries.
- Broken bones.
- Drowning.
- Traumatic brain injuries.
- Accidental amputations.
- Burns.
- Head injuries.
- Wrongful death.
Water vessels can be dangerous, especially when you do not know what you are doing or fail to take proper care.
Some injuries can inflict lasting and life-altering damage. For example, if you drown and suffer oxygen deprivation, you may sustain a permanent brain injury. Make sure you contact a personal injury attorney to hold negligent parties accountable for your suffering.
Who is Liable for a Boating Accident?
In many ways, a boating accident lawsuit is similar to that of a car crash. Your accident attorney will need to identify who was to blame for causing your injuries.
A party would be liable if their negligent actions caused or contributed to an accident. Common liable parties include:
- A boat operator.
- The boat’s owner.
- A boat or equipment rental company.
- Those responsible for vessel maintenance.
Boating accidents can present complex scenarios when it comes to liability, as there are many factors to consider. For example, sailing boats have the right of way over powered boats, which could be a consideration in the event of a crash.
The best thing to do is put your case in the hands of Bisnar Chase. Our law firm has been based in Orange County since 1978, and our expert injury lawyers have the experience to help with any watercraft accident case. We will perform our own investigations and hold the liable parties accountable.
What is Your Personal Injury Case Worth?
To file a successful personal injury claim, you must show a few things. Your personal injury attorneys will show that the liable party owed you a duty of care, they were negligent in that duty, and their negligence caused harm.
But if they do so successfully, how much could your case be worth? The value of a boating lawsuit will vary based on the specifics of your case. Factors can include:
- Level of pain and suffering.
- Medical bills.
- Lost wages.
- Compromised quality of life.
We can help you recover compensation for medical bills, losses, and more.
Boating Accident Lawsuit FAQs
We want to put your mind at ease and will answer any questions you have before filing a claim. Contact us with any other questions!
The statute of limitations in California is two years. Contact a lawyer as soon as possible after an accident!
You can take legal action if you have suffered an injury due to another person’s negligence and they owed you a duty of care. Contact Bisnar Chase for a review of your case.
We have a 99% success rate and more than $700 million won for clients, with 40+ years of experience in Orange County. Our attorneys are skilled and dedicated with an outstanding track record.
Contact the Best Newport Beach Boat Accident Lawyer Near Me
Bisnar Chase is here for you if you have sustained an injury on the water. Our firm offers a free case review and a ‘No Win, No Fee’ promise. We also have a 99% success rate for recovering financial compensation for you.
Whether we resolve your case through a settlement or a trial verdict, we will fight for the result you deserve.
A Newport Beach boat accident lawyer at Bisnar Chase can win for you. Call (949) 203-3814, submit an online contact form, or use our website live chat.
