Enjoying a day soaking up the sun and relaxing on the water can turn into a life-altering event in seconds. A boating collision or crash, whether caused by operator negligence, equipment failure, or unsafe conditions, can often leave individuals with serious injuries – and unforeseen financial burdens.
If another boater’s negligence or reckless behavior caused your injuries, then you have the right to file a lawsuit, and it can escalate into a serious personal injury or wrongful death claim under Illinois law. An attorney well-versed in the nature of boating incidents, like our attorneys at Spiros Law, can evaluate your situation and determine if you have the elements present for a successful claim.
Common Catastrophic Injuries in Illinois Boating Collisions
Serious or catastrophic injuries caused by a boating incident often require lifelong medical care and can dramatically impact quality of life, from a personal and professional standpoint.
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)
Head injuries are extremely common in boating collisions. Passengers may strike railings, consoles, or other passengers during impact.
TBIs can range from concussions to severe brain trauma and may cause:
- Long-term cognitive impairment
- Memory loss or personality changes
Drowning and Near-Drowning Injuries
- Lack of flotation devices or unconsciousness after impact can lead to fatal outcomes
- Survivors may suffer permanent brain damage from oxygen deprivation
Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis
The violent force of a boat crash can cause serious damage to the spine, back, and neck, which may result in:
- Herniated discs
- Vertebral fractures
- Partial or complete paralysis
Broken Bones and Ejection Injuries
During a collision, passengers can be thrown across the vessel, or out of the vessel, or pinned between objects. Causing the following:
- Fractured ribs, arms, and legs
- Internal bleeding
- Impact injuries from the fall
- Risk of being struck by another vessel
Burns and Explosions
In some cases, fuel leaks or onboard fires can cause severe burns and disfigurement.
Damages for Injuries in Recreational Boating Collisions
Serious boating claims are often built not only on the day of the crash but also on the injuries sustained and their lasting impact.
Filing a claim for a recreational boating collision can help you seek compensation for the damages you’ve incurred in recovery, such as:
- Paying for medical treatment and prescription medicine
- Lost wages and loss of future earnings
- Property damage, including reimbursement for damaged boats, equipment, and personal property
- Loss of quality of life
- Emotional distress
- Chronic pain
- Disability or disfigurement
And if there is a wrongful death suit, the following can also be included as damages:
- Loss of care, companionship, or consortium
- Funeral and burial expenses
Contact an Illinois Lawyer Near You Who Knows Your Rights
Boating crash cases are often complex, involving state personal injury laws, federal maritime law, and multiple liable parties, such as operators, rental companies, and manufacturers. Navigating a case such as this after being injured and likely hitting a wall with the insurance companies is made easier with a skilled attorney by your side.
If you were not at fault for the crash, filing a boating injury claim is crucial to get the compensation you need for things like medical costs, property damage, and recovery time. Our team can handle the claim on your behalf to ensure you get what you deserve.
If you’ve sustained serious injuries in a boating accident in Illinois, don’t delay. The personal injury attorneys at Spiros Law have the resources and knowledge to thoroughly review your case and handle the complexities of Illinois boating laws and regulations, allowing you to focus on your recovery.
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Viewing this page does not create an attorney-client relationship. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes. Images are for illustrative purposes only. Attorney advertising. Spiros Law Firm is licensed in Illinois.
