Leading Grand Rapids Boat Accident Attorneys
During the summer months, Michigan families and outdoor enthusiasts flock to the countless beautiful lakes that our state has to offer. For many, the most popular summer outdoor activity is boating. While boating can be a great way to spend a day on the lake, it can also lead to severe injuries. If an accident does unfortunately occur, Michigan boaters do not need to worry about handling their personal injury claim or fighting for compensation.
With our empathetic and comprehensive support at Mabbitt Bhimani Law, victims can rest assured that we will be there to ensure that their claim is filed appropriately, sufficient evidence is gathered and their rights are protected.
At our office in Grand Rapids, we are well-versed in dealing with watercraft crashes, including powerboat accidents and WaveRunner or Jet Ski collisions. We have successfully helped clients navigate the boating accident reporting process throughout our firm’s decadeslong history, and we are prepared to offer personalized and direct assistance throughout your case.
Different Types Of Boating Accidents
Living in a state with an abundance of lakes leads to a high number of boaters on the water. Coincidentally, a high number of boaters often causes an increase in accidents involving watercraft. Some of the most common types of boating accidents in Michigan include:
- Capsizing or sinking
- Falling overboard
- Crashing into another boat
- Water-skiing injuries
- Electrocutions
Countless injuries can happen when engaging in water-related activities. However, by adhering to all safety regulations and being proactively prepared for an accident, boaters can stay safe and confident on the water.
Common Questions Asked By Injured Boaters
It’s rare to have all the answers following a boating collision. Even if you have been involved in a motorboat accident in the past, each crash is different and will require you to take certain actions. By understanding what questions injured boaters commonly have, you can prepare yourself if a collision ever occurs in the future.
What should you do after a boating crash?
Anytime you are on the water, there is the possibility that you could be involved in a boat accident. In moments like this, it is important not to panic and to take the correct steps. The first thing you should do after a crash is identify if anyone fell overboard. If they have, immediately find a life preserver and throw it to the individual. Afterward, be sure to determine if anyone needs medical treatment and provide as much care as possible in the event of an injury. Next, you should collect information from the other boater, including their name, address, phone number and any applicable insurance policy information. After that, it is crucial to document the damage done to both vessels and any injuries suffered by the passengers. Finally, the last thing to take care of following a boat collision is to file a report with the correct agency.
What action are boat operators who witness an accident required to perform?
After a motorboat accident, vessel operators who witnessed the event have a legal obligation to offer first-aid treatment to the best of their abilities to any injured individuals, even if they were not involved in the crash.
What is the process for reporting a boating collision?
Once you have determined that you need to file a boating accident report, acting quickly may be beneficial. To start, the boat driver or owner, if the driver is not able to, should file their report with the local boating authority or the Coast Guard. Next, you must submit the report to the state boating organization where the accident happened. Lastly, be sure to meet all reporting deadlines; otherwise, you could inadvertently violate the law.
How quickly must you file a boating accident report in Michigan?
When it comes to the reporting requirements for boating accidents, the severity of the collision is what matters. After a more serious crash, boaters only have 48 hours to file a report with the appropriate authority. A serious crash is defined as any boating collision involving a death within 24 hours of the incident, injuries to boating passengers requiring medical care or damage to the vessel. For minor crashes, boaters generally have 10 days to complete an accident report.
What are you legally required to do after a reportable boating accident with injuries in Michigan?
In the aftermath of a watercraft collision, boaters are required by federal law to inform the Coast Guard or the Michigan Department of Natural Resources about the incident within 48 hours. To determine which group to file the report with, boaters should contact the organization closest to them in terms of location. Doing so will help the responders arrive at the scene quicker and allow the victims to receive treatment for their injuries in a shorter time.
How Can We Help You?
Boating accidents should never be taken lightly, even when all passengers seem uninjured. We are ready to stand up for boating accident victims when they need an ally to advocate for them.
To protect yourself and your rights, contact us at Mabbitt Bhimani Law by calling 616-326-1111 or emailing our firm.