Handling Boating Accident Claims In Coles County
Throughout Illinois, there are several lakes and rivers for boaters to enjoy, not to mention the expansive and often treacherous Lake Michigan. Unfortunately, boating adventures can quickly turn into life-changing accidents if boat operators are inexperienced or careless.
If you or a family member has been injured or killed due to the negligent actions of another individual when on the water, you may be entitled to compensation for your losses and damages. At Spiros Law, P.C., our Charleston boat accident attorneys are prepared to fight for justice and work relentlessly to obtain maximum compensation for the harm our clients have experienced. We serve clients from offices in Decatur, Champaign, in all types of boating and watercraft accidents.
To learn more, fill out our online contact form or call (217) 516-3451. Your consultation is free and private, and we handle boat accident cases on contingency – we only get paid if we win.
Types Of Vessels
Here in Illinois, there are rivers, lakes, and streams where many different types of vessels may be spotted. These boats may come in different shapes and sizes and are intended to perform several different tasks. As with other vehicles, there are boats intended for recreational use and boats intended primarily for merchant or commercial use.
We help victims of accidents involving any type of boat or watercraft, including:
- Barges
- Bowriders
- Fishing boats
- Great Lakes freighters
- Jet boats
- Jet skis
- Kayaks
- Mackinaw boats
- Motorboats
- Tugboats
- Wakeboard boats
- Yachts
As there are several different types of boats, there are typically different guidelines and rules that individuals may be required to follow. In Illinois, there are several locations where individuals can find boater education courses and certifications to increase knowledge and safety before operating any watercraft.
Causes Of Boating Accidents
Many different circumstances may contribute to boating accidents. In many instances, these accidents are a result of a negligent action performed by the boat operator, but there are dozens of known causes to consider.
Potential causes of boating accidents include:
- Adverse weather conditions
- Congested waters
- Distracted driving
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Equipment failure
- Exceeding vessel weight capacity
- Failure to yield
- Inexperienced boat operators
- Reckless driving
- Speeding
- Water hazards
Recently, there have been studies conducted demonstrating that carbon monoxide is the cause of many boating accidents. When a driver or passenger loses consciousness as a result of carbon monoxide exposure, this can create an extremely dangerous situation for everyone on board or in nearby vessels.
What Types Of Injuries Are Sustained In Boat Accidents?
Most boats do not have the number of safety features found in automobiles, such as seatbelts, airbags, or brakes. Thus, when boats are involved in accidents, they can cause catastrophic injuries.
Statistics from the United States Coast Guard indicate that the most common form of boating injury throughout the United States in 2017 was lacerations mostly to the head, followed by the legs, arms, and then other areas of the body.
Other potential boat accident injuries include:
- Broken bones
- Burns
- Carbon monoxide poisoning
- Concussions
- Dislocation
- Drowning
- Electrocution
- Hypothermia
- Lacerations
- Loss of limb
- Muscle strains and sprains
- Puncture wounds
- Shock
- Spinal cord injury
- Traumatic brain injuries
Many injuries can be avoided by safely operating watercraft, abiding by all boating laws, and taking a boating safety class. It has been proven that 9 out of 10 drowning deaths can be avoided by wearing a life jacket.
Contact Our Experienced Charleston Boat Accident Attorneys
If you have been injured in a boating accident, it is highly recommended that you seek immediate medical attention to ensure a healthy recovery and avoid further injuries. Additionally, these medical documents can be used by our lawyers to develop a stronger case for you in court.
At Spiros Law, P.C., our attorneys proudly serve individuals who have been injured in boat accidents caused by the negligent actions of another individual or entity. Our attorneys have won millions of dollars in verdicts and settlements for our clients and work tirelessly to recover the maximum compensation benefits available.
We take on boat accident cases across Coles County. A few local areas we serve include:
- Carlyle Reservoir
- Champaign
- Crab Orchard Lake
- Decatur
- Lake Michigan
- Mississippi River
- Rend Lake
- Sesser
- Springfield
- Whittington
If you are interested in learning more about our law firm or want to schedule a free case evaluation, we encourage you to contact our firm. A member of staff will collect crucial information regarding your accident, then quickly connect you with one of our caring attorneys ready to take your specific case.
Call (217) 516-3451 to get started!
