Boating Accident Lawyers in Springfield, Illinois
Injured in a boating accident? Talk to our Springfield injury attorneys today
Boating accidents can swiftly turn a tranquil outing into a nightmare. At Glisson Law, our team of skilled Springfield boating accident attorneys is dedicated to handling the complexities of maritime law on behalf of our clients. Whether you've been injured in a collision, suffered property damage, or experienced the tragic loss of a loved one, we are here to provide support and advocacy. Reach out to us today for compassionate guidance and experienced legal representation as we work towards the compensation and closure you deserve.
How can we help?
- What are the statistics on boating accidents in Illinois?
- Where do people boat in Springfield, Illinois?
- What types of injuries are common from Springfield boating accidents?
- How do boating accidents happen?
- Who is liable for my Springfield boating accident?
- What is the value of my Springfield boating accident claim?
What are the statistics on boating accidents in Illinois?
The Illinois Recreational Boating Report states the following:
- There were 187,429 registered boats in 2022.
- There were 52 total accidents, with 40 injuries.
- Six people died; five due to drowning and one due to trauma.
- Out of these six fatalities, five people were not wearing life jackets.
- The fatalities took place on the following types of boats: cabin motorboat, canoe, kayak, and open motorboat.
- Fifty percent of fatalities happened in cabin motorboats.
Where do people boat in Springfield, Illinois?
Lake Springfield attracts tourists and residents alike for boating, fishing, and other recreational activities. There are seven public boat launches around Lake Springfield:
- Center Park Sailboat Launch
- Center Park Harbor Boat Launch and Docks
- Glasser Fishing Area Kayak Launch
- Lake Springfield Marina Boat Launch
- Lindsay Bridge
- Marine Point
- Spaulding Dam
There are also eight public docks: “Tom Madonia Parks (East and West), Marine Point, Lake Park, Bridgeview Park, West Cottonhill Park, and two in the Wildlife Sanctuary (one near the shelter and one in Commissioner’s Park).”
What types of injuries are common from Springfield boating accidents?
The types of injuries resulting from boating accidents can vary widely depending on the circumstances of the accident. However, some common types of injuries that may occur in boating accidents include:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs): Head injuries are a significant concern in boating accidents, particularly if individuals are thrown from the boat or hit their head on the vessel or other objects.
- Spinal cord injuries: Falls, collisions, or being struck by objects during a boating accident can lead to spinal cord injuries, which can cause paralysis or other long-term disabilities.
- Fractures and broken bones: The impact of a collision or being thrown around the boat can result in fractures and broken bones, such as broken arms, legs, ribs, or facial bones.
- Amputations: Amputations may occur in boating accidents due to severe trauma, propeller strikes, or crushing injuries, leading to profound physical and emotional consequences for those involved.
- Drowning and near-drowning: Boating accidents can lead to individuals falling overboard or being trapped underwater, resulting in drowning or near-drowning incidents.
- Internal injuries: Blunt force trauma from collisions or falls can cause internal injuries, such as organ damage, internal bleeding, or injuries to the chest or abdomen.
- Hypothermia: In colder water temperatures, individuals involved in boating accidents may be at risk of hypothermia, especially if they remain in the water for an extended period.
- Burn injuries: Fires or explosions on boats can lead to burn injuries, which can range from minor burns to severe third-degree burns requiring extensive medical treatment.
- Emotional trauma: In addition to physical injuries, individuals involved in boating accidents may experience emotional trauma, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or anxiety, especially if the accident resulted in the loss of a loved one or serious injuries.
Boaters need to prioritize safety measures, including wearing life jackets, following boating regulations, and avoiding alcohol consumption while operating a vessel, to reduce the risk of accidents and injuries on the water.
How do boating accidents happen?
Boating accidents can happen due to various factors, including collisions with other vessels or objects, operator error, speeding, reckless maneuvering, navigation errors, adverse weather conditions, equipment failure, intoxication, lack of proper safety equipment, and failure to follow boating regulations or navigational rules.
Who is liable for my Springfield boating accident?
Determining liability in a Springfield boating accident can be complex and depends on the specific circumstances of the incident. Potential parties that could be liable for a boating accident include:
- Boat operator: The person operating the boat may be held liable if their negligent actions, such as reckless driving, speeding, or operating under the influence of alcohol or drugs, contributed to the accident.
- Boat owner: If the boat was owned by someone other than the operator, the owner could be held liable for negligent maintenance, defective equipment, or entrusting the vessel to an incompetent operator.
- Other parties: Depending on the circumstances, liability could extend to other parties such as manufacturers or distributors if a defective boat part or equipment failure contributed to the accident, or to entities responsible for maintaining navigational aids or waterway safety.
- Passengers: In some cases, passengers who interfere with the safe operation of the boat or engage in reckless behavior may share liability for the accident.
To determine liability accurately, it's essential to gather evidence, including eyewitness testimonies, accident reports, and any available documentation or records. Consulting with a personal injury attorney experienced in maritime law can help you handle these legal complexities and ensure your rights are protected.
What is the value of my Springfield boating accident claim?
Determining the value of your boating accident depends on the specific circumstances of your claim. However, we take into consideration the following factors:
- Medical expenses: This includes current medical bills related to your accident, as well as estimated future medical costs for ongoing treatment, rehabilitation, therapy, and any necessary medical equipment.
- Lost income: If the accident resulted in missed work or reduced earning capacity due to injuries, you may be entitled to compensation for lost wages or diminished earning potential.
- Property damage: This encompasses the cost of repairing or replacing damaged property, such as boats, personal belongings, or other items involved in the accident.
- Pain and suffering: Non-economic damages, such as physical pain, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life, and mental anguish, are also considered in calculating the value of a claim.
- Permanent disability or disfigurement: If the accident resulted in permanent disability, disfigurement, or impairment, compensation may be awarded for the long-term impact on your quality of life and earning potential.
The exact value of your boating accident claim will depend on the unique circumstances of the incident and the damages you have suffered. It's essential to seek legal advice from our Springfield boat accident lawyers to ensure you receive fair compensation for your losses.
Contact our Springfield, IL boat accident lawyers today
Have you been injured in a boating accident in Springfield? At Glisson Law, our team of Springfield boating accident attorneys is here to provide the guidance and support you need. Contact us now for a free consultation, and let us help you navigate the legal process. Your rights matter, and we're here to fight for you. Call or fill out our contact form to schedule a free consultation with an experienced attorney.