Boating accidents frequently occur on Ohio’s rivers, lakes and creeks. Even the most cautious operators can be taken by surprise. When you’re out on the water this season, you should know what to do in case of an accident. Not only could it save lives, but you’ll have a better chance of recovering compensation for any injuries and property damage.
The Law Offices of Tim Misny are standing by to help with your boating accident claim. Here’s what to do if you’re involved in an accident on the water.
Common causes of boating accidents
According to the U.S. Coast Guard, the most common causes include:
- Collisions with other vessels
- Collisions with fixed objects
- Flooding
- Grounding
- Falls overboard
Of course, other factors, such as drug and alcohol use, distracted boating and operating the boat recklessly can also cause an accident. Like any vehicle, boat operators should remain sober and focused at all times.
Follow these steps after an accident
The Ohio Department of Natural Resources has specific rules for reporting an accident. While not every accident must be reported (unlike car collisions), you must report an accident if it meets the following criteria:
- Loss of life or disappearance from a vessel; OR
- An injury that requires treatment beyond first aid; OR
- Combined damage in excess of $1,000; OR
- Complete loss of vessel.
All reports must be submitted within five days, unless there’s a loss of life/disappearance. Then the owner or operator has 24 hours to report the accident. Follow the link above for the appropriate forms and phone numbers.
Directly after the accident, try to take as many photos of the scene as you can, including damage to your and other boats. If there were any eyewitnesses, try to collect their contact information. If another person was negligently or recklessly operating their boat, you may be able to recover compensation for injuries and more.
Anyone injured should immediately seek medical attention, even if the damage seems minimal. Injuries can take hours or days to fully manifest, thanks to adrenaline’s numbing effects. Consider keeping a pain journal to document how your injuries, treatment and prescriptions affect your daily life.
Finally, call the Law Offices of Tim Misny. Our experienced attorneys will review your claim and explain your legal options. If we take on your case, we’ll fight to get you the damages you deserve.
Discuss your case with an Ohio personal injury lawyer today
Involved in a boating accident, thanks else’s negligence? I’ll Make Them Pay!® Call my office at (800) 556-4769 so that I can evaluate your case right away. We’ll work to hold them responsible for the appropriate damages.