Charleston Yacht Accident Lawyer
Every year hundreds of people are injured in boating and yacht accidents in Charleston, and throughout South Carolina. According to the United States Coast Guard, there have been over 136 significant boating accidents in South Carolina waters over the past five years, causing tens of thousands of dollars worth of damage, and significant injuries and even death.
Howell Law Group’s yacht accident lawyers have vast experience representing those injured in yacht and boating accidents.
Reasons for Yacht Accidents
A large number of boating and yacht accidents can be attributed to people not understanding how to safely operate a boat and by not practicing proper seamanship.
Currently, the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources does not require that people over the age of 16 have a license or to take a boating education class.
In addition, you do not need to be a South Carolina resident to operate a boat in and around Charleston.
There are a variety of reasons why a yacht accident may occur in addition to the natural rigors of sailing on a body of water. Some of the leading causes of yacht accidents include:
- Hitting large waves at an unsafe speed
- Passengers being ejected from the yacht
- Operating at high speeds in shallow waters
- Collisions with other watercraft
- Overcrowding and overloading
A dedicated and experienced yacht accident attorney will help investigate the cause and contributing circumstances to any yacht accident and will work to determine who is liable for an accident and resulting injury.
Liability for Yachting Accidents
Any experienced yacht enthusiast will tell you that there are numerous rules of the sea. These rules, which are similar to those for operating a car, dictate how boats and yacht should be operated and include a protocol for turning, passing, and crossing paths with other boats.
Anyone who has been injured in a yacht accident will need to prove that another person or boat operator was negligent.
This means that an injured person will need to demonstrate that their injury was caused because another boat operator or individual failed to exercise reasonable care and that their actions or inactions resulted in property damage, injury, or both.
Filing for Potential Compensation
Yacht accidents can cause serious injuries to operators and passengers. It is critical that after an accident a report detailing the accident must be filed with the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources, particularly when any person is injured and requires medical attention beyond first aid.
However, those who have sustained property damage to their yacht or caused property damage should also file a report with the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources.
If you have been involved in a yacht accident in Charleston or anywhere throughout South Carolina, the yacht accidents lawyers at Howell Law Group are prepared to help you recover compensation for:
- Property damage
- Medical expenses related to the injury
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of enjoyment of life
A number of boaters throughout the state have insurance coverage, which often includes coverage for personal injuries. However, insurance companies are not eager to pay those who have suffered in a yacht accident in Charleston. Our yacht accident lawyers can help guide you through the complex injury claim process and help ensure your claim is supported by a thorough investigation and evidence.
Speak with a Charleston Yacht Accident Attorney Today
If you or someone you love has been injured in a yacht accident, a yacht accident lawyer at Howell Law Group. is prepared to help.
With decades of experience representing those who have been injured while riding on or operating a yacht or any other type of vessel, our attorneys are prepared to guide you through every step of the process and will fight vigorously to secure the compensation you deserve. Contact a Charleston yacht accident lawyer today for a free consultation.