Boating Accidents
If you are looking for a Washington boating accident attorney, you need an attorney who is:
- An experienced lawyer who has handled serious personal injury lawsuits.
- Reputable and has a strong background in representing victims of boating accidents.
- Successful at wining damages for clients in personal injury and wrongful death cases.
Water sports and boating are personal and pleasurable pastimes that are enjoyed by thousands of Washington state residents each year. Unfortunately, boating accidents are sometimes known to happen due to the negligence of others.
If you’ve been in a boating accident in the Everett area or anywhere else in Washington, you need the proven skill and knowledge of Rick H. Merrill, attorney at law.
Boating Accident Statistics in Washington
Washington has almost 2,337 miles of ocean shoreline and hundreds of miles of inland waterways for fishing and boating. According to the U.S. Coast Guard, there are 134 boating accidents each year in Washington State. Reckless boating and drunk boating attribute to the most common type of boating accident, which is a collision with other boats or objects. Capsizing, boat malfunctions and falling while on board or falling overboard can lead to other types of accidents and injury. Ferry or Jet Ski accidents are considered to be boating accidents as well.
Reporting an Accident is Required
When a boating accident occurs that results in the loss of life or an injury needing medical attention, Washington law requires that the boat operator or owner file a boating accident report. If the operator is unable to file this report, the owner of the boat is legally responsible for filing an accident report. Filing a report is also required when someone falls overboard or disappears or when there is property damage.
Need for Representation
Since comparative negligence laws apply in all personal injury claims in the state of Washington, it is imperative for you to seek legal representation. When you are involved in a boating accident, the best thing to do is contact a qualified and experienced boating accident lawyer. Boating accidents can lead to serious lifetime injuries and even death. There is a statute of limitations on filing a claim for compensation in personal injury cases. It is best to act quickly to ensure that your rights are protected. Washington boat accident attorney Rick H. Merrill and his staff have experience in boating accident claims and can help anyone who has been seriously injured in a boating, fishing or personal watercraft accident.
If you or someone you know has been injured in a boating accident in the Everett or surrounding areas, call the Law Offices of Rick H. Merrill. You can contact a member of his caring staff to make an appointment to discuss your boating accident by calling (425) 259-4972.