It’s hard to beat Charleston if you love getting out on the water. In addition to the nearly countless scenic tidal creeks, our deep-water harbor provides direct access to the Atlantic. Given its subtropical climate, Charleston offers excellent boating opportunities. Boating accidents, however, are all too common, and they are also exceptionally dangerous. If you’ve been injured in a boat accident that was caused by another person or entity’s negligence, our experienced Charleston boating accident lawyers at The Law Office of Mark C. Tanenbaum, P.A., can help.
Common Boating Accidents in Charleston
The fact that boat accidents occur on the water adds an additional layer of risk. And there is no shortage of dangers when it comes to boating accidents, including all the following:
- Boat collisions
- Capsizing boats
- Injuries sustained by passengers as a result of negligent driving practices
- Jet Ski and other personal watercraft accidents
- Rental boat accidents
- Injuries sustained in marina or dock accidents
Our attorneys are dedicated to firmly advocating for the compensation you deserve.
Negligence and Boat Accidents
The negligence that leads to boating accidents can take various forms.
The Boat’s Skipper
When you get behind the wheel of your car, you accept an immense responsibility for safety. The same is true of everyone who operates a boat. In fact, boat accidents are often caused by negligence at the helm. While impairment is a primary concern, all the following forms of negligence are also common:
- Distraction
- Exhaustion
- Excess speed
- Aggression
- Failure to yield the right-of-way to boats approaching from the right
Whether the negligent skipper is manning the boat you’re on or another boat on the waterway, they can cause very serious accidents and very serious injuries.
The Rental Company or Boat Owner
Boat rental companies throughout Charleston do a brisk business, and those that fail to keep their vessels well-maintained put their passengers at serious risk. Boat owners are also responsible for keeping their watercraft seaworthy and for the safety of their passengers.
If you’re injured due to an unsafe boat, the rental company or owner may be liable. Allowing unqualified individuals to operate a vessel can also create liability.
In some cases, more than one party may share responsibility for your damages. When multiple parties are liable, resolving your claim can become more complex, and it may require careful investigation to determine each party’s role and degree of responsibility.
Important Steps Forward
If you’re injured in a boating accident, taking all the following steps is important in terms of your health and well-being as well as your claim:
- Accept emergency care and transportation at the scene or follow up immediately with your own healthcare provider
- Consult with a knowledgeable boating accident lawyer early on and allow them to speak on your behalf
- Carefully follow your medical team’s advice
- Stay off social media while your claim is pending
Our Experienced Charleston Boat Accident Attorneys Can Help
Our trusted Charleston boating accident lawyers at The Law Office of Mark C. Tanenbaum, P.A., have reserves of experience helping clients prevail with favorable settlements, and we’ll spare no effort on your behalf. Learn more by contacting us online or by calling 843-577-5100 today.