Boating is often associated with relaxation and recreation, but accidents on the water can lead to serious injuries with lasting consequences. Collisions, falls, and unsafe conditions can turn a day of fun into a medical emergency. By understanding the full extent of your injuries and the treatment that you may need to recover, you can ensure that you are pursuing the maximum amount of compensation that you need and deserve.
Brain Injuries
Any significant blow to the head during a boating accident can result in a traumatic brain injury. These injuries may happen during a fall on a slippery deck, from being thrown into a solid object, or after being ejected from the vessel. The consequences can vary widely, from headaches and confusion to long-term cognitive impairments. When another party’s negligence is involved, a brain injury lawyer can help victims seek compensation for medical costs, lost income, and ongoing treatment.
Broken Bones
Falls are common on boats due to wet surfaces, sudden stops, or impact with another vessel. When passengers lose their footing or are thrown off balance, they can suffer fractures in the arms, legs, ribs, or collarbone. Some breaks require surgical intervention and long recovery times, limiting a person’s ability to work or care for themselves.
Spinal Injuries
A sudden jolt or fall can cause trauma to the spine, resulting in herniated discs, nerve damage, or even partial paralysis. These injuries can occur in a high-speed crash or from diving off a boat into shallow or unfamiliar water. Because the spine plays a vital role in movement and control, damage to this area can impact nearly every part of daily life. Serious spinal injuries may necessitate long-term medical care, and an experienced boat accident lawyer can help you pursue compensation to cover these expenses.
Lacerations And Amputations
Boat propellers, tow lines, and sharp equipment on board can cause deep cuts or, in extreme cases, the loss of a limb. When a person falls overboard and comes into contact with a running motor, the risk of serious injury rises. These incidents are often preventable with proper maintenance and safety procedures, which is why fault must be examined carefully.
Burns
Though boats are surrounded by water, fire risks still exist, and experienced attorneys such as our colleagues at Pavlack Law, LLC know that burn injuries in boat accidents are more common than many people think. Fuel leaks, engine malfunctions, and onboard grills can lead to sudden fires or explosions. Burns can range from mild to life-threatening, and some may result in permanent scarring or the need for skin grafts. Treatment can be intensive and costly, especially when infection occurs.
Drowning
When a boating accident causes someone to be thrown into the water, they may be at risk of drowning—especially if unconscious, not wearing a life jacket, or unable to swim. Near-drowning events can also result in brain damage due to lack of oxygen, adding another layer of harm to already critical injuries.
Contact An Attorney Today
An experienced attorney can attest that boating injuries often raise serious legal questions about responsibility and recovery. If you or someone you know has been hurt in a boating accident, seeking legal guidance is an important step. Whether it’s a head injury or another serious trauma, taking action now can help protect your rights moving forward.