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The many lakes, rivers, and waterways provide Riverdale boaters with an excellent opportunity to enjoy their vessels for commercial and recreational use. While many captain their boats with skill and caution, there are many boaters who are inattentive or inexperienced. When a boater causes a collision on the water, they could be held liable for damages. If you or a loved one were injured due to a reckless and negligent boater, you should speak with a Riverdale boat accident lawyer as soon as possible.
Because of the weight and speed of modern vessels, even minor collisions can result in significant personal injuries to a driver and their passengers. Following an accident, the injured party is often left with significant medical bills, lost wages, mental anguish as well as pain and suffering. Depending on your case, a knowledgeable personal injury attorney with experience in representing plaintiffs in these types of accidents could advise you of your legal options and help you seek the compensation you need.
Boaters and their passengers are often not wearing a seat belt or other safety devices at the time of an accident. This can result in serious injuries, including:
Even a minor injury can result in expensive medical bills, which has the potential to increase over time. The plaintiff may be able to pursue damages for any harm that stems directly from the initial accident. Following a collision, it is best to consult with a skilled Riverdale boat accident attorney.
For a plaintiff to seek damages against a defendant for their injuries, they will first have to prove to the court that the defendant was negligent. An experienced boat accident lawyer from Riverdale could help prove to the court that the legal elements of duty, breach, causation, proximate cause, and damages are present.
Often, in personal injuries cases, the defendant can attempt to limit their liability using a contributory negligence claim. A claim of contributory fault found under 735 Illinois Compiled Statutes §5/2-1116, is an allegation by the defendant that the plaintiff is partly responsible for the accident and their injuries.
Even if a plaintiff is determined to share some of the blame for the incident, they can still collect compensation for damages so long as they are determined to be less than 50 percent responsible. If the plaintiff is found to be more than 51 percent at fault, they may be ineligible to recover compensation
Ideally, a plaintiff will want to limit their fault as much as possible. With the help of a boat accident attorney from Riverdale, the plaintiff may be able to limit their percentage of liability following a collision.
After a boating accident, you may not only have substantial medical bills and ongoing medical injuries but long-term psychological damage as well. Fortunately, a diligent Riverdale boat accident attorney could help.
Depending on your case, you may be able to bring a negligence claim against the defendant and pursue compensation for your injuries. Call today to discuss your case and legal options.