Columbia Boating Accident Lawyers
South Carolina is home to many beautiful beaches and lakes. Although these waterways are a big part of what makes South Carolina unique, the actions of irresponsible boaters can often cause serious damage to individuals and groups out on the water. Unfortunately, boating accident injuries can be very serious and, in some cases, even deadly. If you or a loved one has been seriously injured or killed in a boating accident, it is our experience that the insurance company will not make the recovery process a simple or fair one for you. Let us put our 60+ years of combined experience to work, ensuring that you receive the entirety of what you’re owed under SC law for what you’ve been through. We won’t settle for anything less.
South Carolina Boat Accident Statistics
Every year, the U.S. Coast Guard compiles and publishes statistics on reported recreational boating accidents per state across the US. Alarmingly, the most recent report states that in 2020 there were 153 total recreational boat accidents in South Carolina alone, with 21 fatal accidents, and 25 reported deaths. These devastating numbers reflect the highest in each category in the reported 5-year range of 2016-2020.
If you or a loved one was involved in a boat accident that led to catastrophic injuries or resulted in the tragic loss of life, we are so sorry. Our team is here to help you through this difficult time and take care of every legal aspect so you and your family can focus solely on healing. Our experienced legal team helps every client recover physically, financially, and emotionally following a tragic accident. Call us today at (803) 888-2200 or schedule your free consultation online and we will be in touch as quickly as possible. You can rest assured knowing that our team will fight to get you everything you’re owed under South Carolina law following a boat accident, taking your case to trial if necessary.
Common South Carolina Boating Injuries
If you have suffered any kind of injury from a boating accident, especially a serious injury, it is crucial to seek the advice of an experienced attorney immediately after seeking proper medical care. Common boating accident injuries may include:
- Debilitating bone breaks
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Soft tissue injuries
- Whiplash and spinal cord injuries
- Burns and smoke inhalation
- Exposure to toxic chemicals
Common Causes of Boat Accidents
Research and our personal experience representing boat accident victims and their families shows that common causes of boat accidents include:
- Operator inattention and error
- Alcohol use
- Excessive speed
- Equipment failure
- Passengers being thrown overboard
- Boat capsizing
- Not wearing a lifejacket or PFD
- Lack of preparation, and more.
Depending on the cause of the accident, different parties can be held liable for your injuries or loss. For example, if a boater or passenger is hurt due to a defective part, then you may be able to take legal action against the manufacturer or seller of that part. On the other hand, if the driver of the boat acted in a negligent manner, then they may be held liable, and you can pursue an injury or wrongful death claim against the driver themself. There are many intricacies in determining liability and filing a claim against the corresponding parties. Our team is trained and experienced in determining liability and filing suit against negligent parties responsible for boat accident cases throughout South Carolina. For more information, please contact our team today.
Why Contact a Boat Accident Lawyer?
Your priority following a boat accident should always be to seek medical attention for all injuries, especially ones that seem to worsen over time, as it may take days for symptoms to appear. Make sure to document your injuries and get contact information from all parties involved, including the boat driver, witnesses, and more.
Following these steps, it is in your best interest to speak with an experienced boat accident lawyer to get an understanding of what you might be entitled to prior to discussing the accident with an insurance adjuster. Don’t worry, it is entirely free to speak with an experienced boating accident attorney at Cavanaugh & Thickens about a South Carolina boat accident.
Remember, the longer you wait to file a personal injury claim following a boat accident, the more complex the claim process can become. Call our team today to make sure you haven’t missed any important deadlines and are still eligible to receive the compensation you deserve.
What to Do After a Boat Accident
We know that a boating accident is not something you ask for. However, in the event that a boating accident does occur, our number one priority is to help you recover and move on with your normal life.
Directly following the accident, it’s important to seek immediate medical care for everyone injured. Then, document your injuries and get contact information from all those involved. As soon as possible, it is also critical to contact an experienced attorney. Also, the longer you wait to file, the more difficult the claim becomes. Act quickly to ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.
How Do I Hire a Boat Accident Attorney?
At Cavanaugh & Thickens, the process begins with an entirely free consultation during which we will explain your legal rights and how our boat accident lawyers can help you. During this consultation, we can sign you on as a client and take over the burden of the intricate legal process for you right then and there. Call us today at (803) 888-2200 for your free consultation or fill out our online form and one of our personal injury attorneys will be in touch with you as soon as possible. Let us take care of you, so you can focus on recovering.
South Carolina Boating Injury Lawyer
If you or a loved one has been injured or lost their lives in a South Carolina boating accident, you may be entitled to receive significant compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and other related costs and damages. We have the resources needed to ensure you’re protected and get the maximum compensation allowed under state law. Contact Cavanaugh & Thickens today to schedule your free consultation and case review.
