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Most boating accidents can be prevented. Some accidents result from poor judgment, involving drivers who lack experience or choose to drive while intoxicated. Other times, boaters are simply unaware of the common causes of boating accidents in Chicago, such as adverse weather conditions or equipment failure. If you were injured in a boat wreck caused by someone else’s negligence, contact a boat accident lawyer for help pursuing compensation.
Low water temperatures are a common source of injury in Chicago boat wrecks. Like most of the Great Lakes, Lake Michigan is cold for the majority of the year. Because of this, the water is only considered safe from July through September. When the water’s temperature drops below 70 degrees, people may have difficulty regulating their breathing. If someone falls into water below 60 degrees, they could lose breath control and begin to hyperventilate.
Cold shock prevents people from holding their breath under the surface, causing them to swallow water. Additionally, sudden immersion in freezing water can cause cardiac arrest or loss of consciousness. Individuals should avoid boating under hazardous conditions and always carry safety equipment in case of an accident.
For some boat owners, speeding across the water is a freeing experience. However, excessive speed can cause drivers to lose control and create dangerous wakes that may swamp or capsize smaller crafts. Speeding often leads to reckless driving and is especially hazardous in congested areas where vessels have limited maneuverability.
Boat owners are responsible for keeping their vessels in working order. This means performing routine maintenance and checking operations before taking a boat on the water. Unfortunately, damaged equipment often leads to boating accidents in Chicago. For example, electrical problems can disable a boat or prevent lights from working at night. Before starting an excursion, boaters should ensure there is sufficient fuel to return to port and that all required safety items are onboard and in good condition.
Many Chicago boating accidents are the result of driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Just as on land, boaters must drive sober to avoid preventable accidents.
Additionally, drivers lacking experience frequently cause otherwise preventable boat accidents in Chicago. Anyone operating a boat over 10 horsepower in Illinois waters must have a valid Boating and Safety Certificate. This safety course reduces risks associated with inexperienced drivers.
Boat accidents resulting in property damage exceeding $2,000, injuries requiring more than just first aid, or loss of life must be reported to the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) or local law enforcement. Responsible parties must file an accident report within five days in the case of nonfatal accidents or within 48 hours if there is a fatality.
Injured parties have two years from the date of an accident to file a personal injury claim and receive compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering. McCready Law’s skilled lawyers could help accident victims gather evidence and negotiate with insurance companies for fair compensation. If a fair settlement is not reached, an attorney could represent clients in court.
Gathering evidence to prove negligence in boat accidents can be challenging. Boaters can avoid situations that may result in injuries by understanding the common causes of boating accidents in Chicago. McCready Law is a knowledgeable personal injury firm with experience in gathering evidence, using expert witnesses, and developing a legal strategy to seek compensation for its clients. Call today to schedule a free consultation.