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Gary W. Starnes Attorney at Law
736 Georgia Avenue
Suite 404 Dome Bldg.
Chattanooga, TN 37402
Phone (800)281-2403
Fax (423) 266-7193
Email: gstarnes@volstate.net
Boating Accident Lawyer
Chattanooga, Tennessee
Boating Accidents
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Boat accidents include, not just boats, but all watercraft. Boat accidents can also involve jet skis, stand-up skis and skiers, towable floats and other flotation equipment.
Boating Laws
Federal and State laws must all be observed regarding the operation of all watercraft. Laws differ under variable circumstances, such as whether the accident occurred on a navigable waterway. Unlike automobiles, the requirements to operate a boat or jet ski are not very demanding, and people don’t always act as responsibly in operating the craft as is warranted. A boater may be shown how to operate a boat for the first time, immediately before he or she takes it onto the water. This means you may have to share the waters with inexperienced boaters, increasing the odds of a serious personal injury accident.
Boater Responsibilities
Boaters are as responsible for how they control their “boat” as highway vehicle drivers are for controlling their autos and trucks. Alcohol and drugs are frequent contributing factors in watercraft accidents, and these incidences increase every year. Inexperience, foolishness, horseplay, failure to observe what’s going on nearby, racing, and emotions such as anger or rage, are just a few other factors that can make the difference between an enjoyable boating experience and a disastrous one.
Other’s Responsibilities
Other contributing factors may include the failure of recreation site or boat owner to maintain the safety of their equipment or property. As you can see, there are many predictable, as well as unpredictable risks for injuries resulting from boating accidents.
Factors May Not Be Black And White
Each incident requires a full investigation of causes and contributing factors, as well as a full investigation of the extent of injury and loss you, as a victim may be incurring now, and in the future. Not all contributing factors are obvious, and many can be so subtle that no one is aware of them without an investigation.
If you’ve been injured in a boat accident you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and losses. Don’t trust your future financial stability to the “judgment” of an insurance adjuster, whose agenda is to protect his employer’s financial interests. Don’t let anyone pressure you to sign away your rights, even if doctors and other bill collectors are pressuring you. Seek the advice of an experienced boat accident attorney before signing any agreements. You may be surprised at how much you have at stake.
Please contact boating accident lawyer, Gary Starnes, Attorney at Law, Chattanooga, Tennessee, an experienced boating accident attorney practicing in Tennessee and Georgia for a free consultation. Or Call 1-800-281-2403 and schedule an appointment.