Boston Boating Accident Lawyer
The Massachusetts coastline offers abundant opportunities for both leisurely recreation and commercial fishing activities. Whether enjoying a day on the water with family or navigating the demands of the state’s vibrant fishing industry, boating is a central part of life for many. However, as with any activity involving watercraft, boating presents inherent risks that can lead to serious, sometimes life-altering injuries. In the unfortunate event of a boating accident, a Boston boating accident lawyer can provide the guidance and support you need.
At Turco Legal, we are committed to helping individuals who have been injured in boating accidents seek the compensation they deserve. We offer a free consultation to discuss your situation, answer your questions, and evaluate your case.
How Turco Legal Can Assist After a Boating Accident
Our firm brings years of experience to the table when assisting clients who have been affected by boating accidents. We are prepared to handle a variety of cases involving different types of watercraft, including:
Sailboats
Motorboats
Commercial vessels
Charter boats
Fishing vessels
Jet skis
Pursuing Compensation for Boating-Related Injuries
Experiencing a boating accident can be traumatic. The isolation of being on the water, combined with the potential for severe injury, can leave victims in an especially vulnerable position. For many, the aftermath of such an event involves not only physical pain but the stress of navigating the complex claims process while recovering.
Turco Legal works to identify the responsible party—whether it’s the boat operator, the manufacturer of the vessel, or the company that owns the boat. Common types of boating accidents we assist with include:
Overboard Incidents: Sudden movements or collisions can cause passengers to be ejected from the boat, resulting in injuries ranging from sprains to drowning.
Runover Accidents: A collision with a swimmer or water skier can cause head trauma, fractures, or neck injuries.
Slip and Fall Accidents: Passengers may sustain serious injuries, such as concussions or back and neck injuries, after slipping or falling on a boat.
Collisions: Collisions with other vessels or stationary objects, like docks, can lead to traumatic injuries or, in severe cases, drowning.
Capsizing: A boat may capsize due to defects or adverse weather conditions, resulting in significant injuries.
Fires: Boat fires can cause burns, smoke inhalation, and drowning injuries.
Understanding Negligence in Boating Accidents
A day out on the water should be an enjoyable experience. However, when accidents happen, it is essential to understand the underlying causes. Many boating accidents are the result of negligence, which can take many forms, such as:
Operator Error: Speeding, failing to maintain a proper lookout, or improper navigation near other boats or docks.
Distraction: Operators using mobile phones or engaging in other activities that divert their attention from operating the vessel safely.
Intoxication: Impaired judgment due to alcohol or drug use, which significantly increases the risk of an accident.
Mechanical or Electrical Failures: Defects or failures that result in uncontrollable or unsafe conditions, including fires.
Poor Maintenance: Failure to maintain the boat properly, making it dangerous to operate.
Our firm will carefully investigate the circumstances surrounding the accident to determine the cause and ensure that the appropriate parties are held accountable.
Pursuing Fair Compensation for Your Injuries
Boating accidents can have long-lasting financial and emotional effects. While the responsible party should be held accountable for the harm caused, obtaining fair compensation often requires navigating complex legal considerations. For example, if an injured party is found to have contributed to the accident, comparative negligence laws may affect the amount of compensation awarded. In Massachusetts, as outlined in M.G.L. c. 231, § 85, an individual may still be eligible for compensation if they are less than 50% at fault for the incident. The compensation will, however, be adjusted to reflect their degree of fault.
At Turco Legal, we are committed to advocating for your rights, helping you secure compensation for:
Emergency medical care
Doctor visits and ongoing treatment
Prescription medications and rehabilitation
Property damage
Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
Physical pain and emotional distress
Steps to Take After a Boating Accident
The immediate priority following a boating accident is ensuring the safety of everyone involved. If necessary, seek medical attention and call emergency services for help. Once you are on shore, it is important to seek medical care, even for seemingly minor injuries.
Under Massachusetts law, the operator of a vessel must report a boating accident to the Environmental Police Boat and Recreational Vehicle Safety Bureau if any of the following occur:
Injury requiring medical attention
Death
A person is missing and there is a possibility of injury or death
Property damage exceeding $500
This report must be filed within five days of the incident or within 48 hours if someone is seriously injured or killed.
Contact Turco Legal for Support
If you or someone you know has been injured in a boating accident, our team at Turco Legal is here to help. We understand the complexities of personal injury claims and are dedicated to guiding you through every step of the process. To learn more about your rights and options, call us at (617) 657-4878 or schedule a free consultation.