In the aftermath of a boating accident, it’s important to know the first steps to take. Not only does this help to protect your well-being and ensure safety, but it also protects your right to a legal claim for compensation.
At Feller & Wendt, LLC™, our compassionate boat crash attorneys can help with your case from start to finish. Call today to schedule an initial consultation.
Stay Calm and Check for Injuries
The first and most important thing to do after a boat wreck is to prioritize safety. Make sure you, any passengers, and anyone else involved are out of harm’s way. If anyone has an injury, contact medical services for assistance. Keep in mind that adrenaline can mask harm, so it’s important to always err on the side of caution and see a doctor, even if your injuries seem minor.
Some injuries may not fully manifest until days or weeks later, including internal bleeding and concussions. Visiting a health professional can ensure all harm is accounted for and you receive proper medical care. Additionally, this provides evidence of your injuries, which can be used when pursuing a claim.
Move to Safety if Possible
If the boat is sinking or at risk of collision, move to a secure location, like the shore or another ship. It’s essential not to abandon ship unless absolutely necessary or instructed to do so by the rescue personnel. Even before an accident occurs, it’s also crucial to have life jackets on board. You can reach for and put on a life jacket in the aftermath of a crash if you didn’t already have one on.
Alert the Authorities of the Incident
Once you have checked for injuries and moved to a safe location, the next step is to contact the correct authorities to report the incident.
Contact Emergency Services
If there are any injuries or significant property damage, dial 911. Boating accidents must be reported not just to 911 or general law enforcement, but also to a designated agency responsible for waterway safety, such as Arizona Game and Fish.
File an Official Report
All boating crashes must be reported if there are:
- Injuries
- Wrongful death
- Property damage exceeding a certain threshold
This report must be submitted within a specific timeframe, typically 48 hours, although this may vary from state to state.
Document the Accident Scene
If you’re uninjured and it’s safe to do so, take photos or videos of the accident scene, including:
- Boat damage
- Injuries
- Weather and water conditions
- The presence or lack of safety gear
It’s also essential to collect names, contact information, and registration numbers from other parties.
Don’t Admit Fault or Assign Blame
Keep statements factual when speaking with others at the scene, especially the authorities or insurers. Even if you feel you were responsible for the incident, liability is not always as clear-cut as it seems. Admitting fault can have serious legal implications and can affect your ability to claim compensation. It’s best to allow investigators to determine the cause of your accident.
Don’t make any statements, admissions of fault, or sign any documents until you have spoken with your attorney first. They can protect your legal rights, negotiate with insurers, and begin building a compelling case for compensation.
Seek Medical Attention
As mentioned earlier, it’s most important to prioritize your physical well-being in the aftermath of an accident. Some injuries, such as head trauma or internal bleeding, may not manifest immediately. Seeing a doctor can clear you of any underlying harm and allow you to treat injuries.
Medical services go beyond the ambulance and paramedics who come to the scene. You should schedule a follow-up check-up with your primary care physician. A complete health evaluation provides you with the documentation you need for your claim.
Get in Touch With a Boating Accident Lawyer Today
Our personal injury attorneys at Feller & Wendt, LLC™ can investigate the cause of your accident, deal with insurance companies, and protect your rights if you were injured or blamed.
If you have been in a boating accident of any kind, don’t hesitate to reach out to our law office today to schedule a free consultation. Call us at 801-499-5060 to start building a case for compensation.
