A beautiful day, sailing in the open sea and the boat you are on – it seems like life is perfect, and then – boom.
A car flips over, and before you know it, you are hurt. The days that follow are filled with confusion and uncertainty.
What is your legal entitlement? To whom are you now owing the injuries? Finally, but most importantly, what measures should be taken to ensure your safety?
Accidents on boats are not uncommon and while it can be shocking to be a victim, it is equally important to know your rights and the steps to be taken.
This blog post will also provide a step-by-step guide that is useful for anyone who wants to make sure that they are fully equipped and shielded in case they are a passenger on a boat and get injured.
One thing you should never forget is that if you want to get maximum compensation for your damages in a boat accident, then you should have a reputable boat accident lawyer by your side.
In this case, it is crucial to document your injury and the accident, especially after seeking medical attention.
Why It is Essential to Document Your Injury and the Accident
Documentation helps to keep records of the events, and this may be very helpful, especially in cases where one has to seek compensation from an insurance company or court.
Take Photographs:
Take photos of the accident scene, injuries, and any damage done to the boat before the accident. Pictures can give a clear and unarguable testimony of what happened.
Gather Witness Statements:
If there are other passengers or people on the scene who observed the accident, ask for their details and make sure they give a statement in writing or on video recounting what they saw.
Medical Records:
Go to a doctor as soon as possible and retain all documentation of your appointments, medical history, treatment plans, and medications.
It is of great importance to have medical records that will support the level of your damages.
Report to Authorities:
In case of an accident involving boats or ships, report the incident to the appropriate authorities like the Coast Guard or the local maritime office.
They will prepare an official report of their finding, and this can be useful in your case.
When a Boating Accident Occurs
Boating accident reporting is not only mandatory from a legal point of view but may also be mandatory in many cases. Reporting is essential in documenting the occurrence and can help in cases of investigations or legal proceedings.
Determine the Need for Reporting:
Determine whether the accident falls under the category of reportable incidents. In the U.S., the Coast Guard requires an accident to be reported if it results in a fatality or a missing person, an injury that needs medical treatment beyond first aid, damaged property worth more than $2,000, or a vessel that has been lost completely.
Collect Information:
To complete the report, assemble data such as the boat registration number, information about the boat driver, the names and contact details of all the passengers and any witnesses, as well as the full details of the incident.
Contact the Appropriate Authorities:
Make a report of the incident to the nearest reporting agency which may be the coast guard, local police, or state boating officers.
They shall assist you in compiling the reports and avail any form that may be necessary.
Complete the Accident Report Form:
Ensure that you complete the accident report form to the best of your ability and with all details that are required.
It’s important to provide all the information regarding the accident, your injuries and any damages to property.
Check that all the information presented is accurate and provides as much detail as possible.
Submit the Report Promptly:
After completing the form, ensure that it is filled and forwarded to the appropriate department within the necessary time.
In most regions, it must be filed within 48 hours to 10 days, depending on the circumstances of the crash.
