Do I Have a Legal Claim After a Boating Accident in Georgia?

Many Georgia families agree that there’s nothing better than a day on the boat, especially during the hot summer months. Our state is home to many beautiful bodies of water, including Lake Oconee, Lake Lanier, and the Ogeechee River – as well as the sandy beaches lining the coast. Thousands of boaters hit the waterways each year, but a day of fun in the sun is not always the result. Boating accidents are far too common, resulting in medical bills, lost wages, and costly vehicle repairs.

However, do you have any legal claim in boating accident?

Here, Ross Moore Law explains your options.

If you have been involved in an accident here in Georgia, you may be eligible to receive compensation for your boating accident injuries and losses. Here at Ross Moore Law, our injury attorneys can help. Ross Moore Law is standing by with the legal advice needed to get your future back on track, and to maximize the compensation you receive!

Proving Liability for Boating Accidents in Georgia

Most boating accident claims are filed as negligence lawsuits, used to hold the at-fault party accountable for their actions. Because Georgia has a special consent statute for boat owners, it is possible to hold them liable for any injury or damage that results from their negligent boat operation – whether it violated a Georgia statute or the common law.

Negligent behavior may include the following:

The boat owner, though, cannot be deemed liable if the boat was used without their consent. Note: If an immediate family member is the boat operator, it is presumed that they received permission.

If you are not sure how to prove liability, our Atlanta boating accident lawyers can help. Our law office is skilled in gathering evidence to support injury claims, and we will fight diligently to see justice done.

Is There a Statute of Limitations for Boating Accident Claims?

After your boating accident, it is important to file a claim in a timely manner. The Georgia statute of limitations is two years, meaning that you have two years from the date of the accident to pursue legal action. There is an exception to this rule if one of the at-fault parties has been charged with a crime related to the accident (or could be). In this instance, the statute of limitations clock is paused until the investigation and prosecution conclude – up to six years. Because it is crucial to preserve evidence, our personal injury lawyers recommend filing a claim as soon as possible. This also gives our accident attorneys in Atlanta ample time to build the strongest possible case.

Why You Should Hire an Attorney After a Boating Accident

The insurance company will be in touch shortly after your boat accident, but it is important to remember that they are not on your side. Focused on paying out as little as possible, the adjuster will likely try to get you to agree to a quick settlement.

Never give a statement or sign any paperwork without first consulting your Atlanta boating accident lawyer. While it is possible to file a claim on your own, you will likely end up settling for much less than you deserve. Instead, let our personal injury attorneys near you handle every aspect of your claim, including communication with the insurance company. We will also calculate the value of your collective damages to get a better idea of what you are entitled to. And if the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, we will file a personal injury lawsuit on your behalf.

You may be eligible for the following types of damages:

Contact Your Trusted Atlanta Boating Accident Lawyer Today!

If you or a loved one have been injured in a boating accident, please do not hesitate to reach out to our team! Remember, the sooner you file your case, the better. Our personal injury law firm will get to work immediately after your free consultation.

Here at Ross Moore Law, we provide honest legal advice and personalized service that meets every one of your needs. Our team is focused not only on recovering compensation, but providing peace of mind along the way.

To get started with an initial free consultation, contact Ross Moore Law today!

We are proud to serve clients throughout the Atlanta area including Marietta, Athens, Downtown Alpharetta and throughout Georgia. Ross Moore Law provide support for the following topics: