There are few things more fun than taking the boat out for a ride. However, there are several necessary safety measures every boat owner must take. If you are someone who has been hurt in a boat accident, you are most likely looking to recover compensation to help you heal. Our Nueces County, Texas personal injury lawyer is ready to help. Here are some of the questions you may have:
What are some of the precautions a boat owner should take?
Owning a boat is a fun time for all, but it is important for a boat owner to take all the necessary safety precautions before setting out. Here are some of the precautions a responsible boat owner should take:
- If the boat is in the water, ensure the vessel is not taking on water
- Ensure the anchor is attached to the boat and has enough length of ground tackle
- Always have working flares on board
- Look for signs of blade pitting
- Check for significant scrapes on the hull
- Ensure the through-hull connections are not leaking
- Have necessary safety equipment ready such as personal flotation devices, sound-producing devices, and fire extinguishers
If you are a boat owner, you need to understand that you are also entirely responsible for your own behavior. You must never operate a motorboat under the influence of drugs and alcohol, and you must always be aware of your surroundings. Always stay alert for oncoming boats, swimmers, or debris.
How may I recover compensation following a boat accident in Texas?
If you believe you are entitled to financial compensation, you must be able to prove that the other party is at fault. If you can prove you were injured due to another party’s negligence, there is a good chance you will be entitled to compensation. Eyewitness accounts and medical documents are great ways to prove you have sustained injuries due to another negligent party, however photographic and video evidence is generally the best way to go. Additionally, once you file your claim, you must be extremely careful about what you post on your social media accounts. While it is generally best to avoid posting altogether, if you are unable to do so, you must never post anything that may contradict your claim in any way. Insurance companies may be monitoring your account to find anything they can to deny you your compensation.
