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    Hammond Boat Accident Lawyer

    Accidents do not only occur on land, but they could also happen on the water as well. Individuals could sustain severe injuries while boating.

    If you or a loved one were injured in a boat collision, legal action may be warranted. A skilled Hammond boat accident lawyer may be available to help with your case. They can review your case, gather evidence, and speak to witnesses to help prove that the defendant’s negligent actions caused your damages. Following a boating accident, you should speak to a knowledgeable personal injury attorney to learn about your legal options to recover compensation.

    How Could Someone Prove Liability in a Boat Accident Claim?

    Generally, evidence of disobeying a boating regulation may be used by a plaintiff as part of their case in chief. It will not conclusively make the defendant at fault; however, it may impact the offender’s degree of blame.

    Hammond follows legal principles of comparative negligence. Under Civil Code Art. 2323, damages for boating accident injuries may be reduced proportionally by the degree to which the claimant has contributed to their own harm.

    A diligent Hammond boat accident attorney can handle and argue against claims of shared negligence to help injured claimants recover more compensation.

    What is the Importance of Boating Regulations in a Claim?

    Although the violation of a boating statute does not guarantee the placing of all blame on the defendant, it is relevant evidence. Often this type of transgression helps to establish that a boat operator’s actions fell short of their required duty of due care under the circumstances. For more information, consult with a seasoned boat accident lawyer in Hammond.

    Boating Safety Education

    Per RS 34:851.36, operators of vessels of more than ten horsepower must complete a boating course that has been approved by the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA).

    All safety education course participants must be over the age of 18. An exemption from the course applies for captains licensed by the United States Coast Guard.

    Riding on Boat Decks

    A person who was injured while riding on a deck or gunwale may be determined to have partially contributed to their own harm. Nevertheless, a boat owner, who allowed the rider to do so, may also be partly to blame.

    Under RS 34:851.13, boat passengers are prohibited from sitting on gunwales while a vessel is underway for their own protection. Conversely, a boat driver has committed a citable offense if they allow riders to sit on gunwales while underway or allow a person to sit or ride on decking over the bow without guard rails. A boat accident lawyer in Hammond may have experience with claims for this form of injury.

    Boating in Restricted Areas

    Boat captains may not drive their vessels into restricted areas. Prohibited water spaces may include bathing or swimming zones, per RS 34:851.14.

    Restricted regions on the water are generally marked by buoys or ropes. An exception applies for rescue boats and other emergency vehicles.

    Waterskiing Accidents in Hammond

    Motorboats may not tow a water skier unless two competent adults are onboard the vessel during the skiing. Under RS 34:851.15, the boat must be driven in a careful and prudent manner.
    Boaters must keep a safe distance away from other persons, property, or vessels. Failure to do so may work against a driver in a lawsuit.

    Make an Appointment with a Hammond Boat Accident Attorney

    After a boating accident, individuals could sustain serious injuries and property damage. You do not need to handle your case alone.

    If you were involved in a boating accident, let a Hammond boat accident lawyer handle the legal aspects of your case while you focus on your recovery. With the help of a knowledgeable attorney, you may be eligible to recover compensation for your damages. Call today to get started on your case.