Alexandria Boat Accident Lawyer

Sailing white boat race on the sea.

Boating on local waters such as the Potomac River is one of Alexandria’s major attractions. However, while it may be a fun and relaxing activity, boating on rivers, lakes, and streams, or along the coast, also comes with the risk of serious accidents and catastrophic injuries. Negligent boaters can cause life-altering consequences or even fatal accidents in the blink of an eye. When they do, they should be held accountable.

The experienced Alexandria personal injury law attorneys at Marks & Harrison have seen firsthand the devastation boating accidents can cause in Virginia, and we’re dedicated to protecting the rights of the injured. Contact us today to learn more about your options and legal rights in a free initial consultation.

What Steps Should You Take Immediately Following an Alexandria Boating Accident?

The moments after a boating accident can be frightening and overwhelming. By taking swift action, you can protect your safety and rights. Be sure to do the following:

  • Seek medical attention – If you have not done so already, it’s critical to see a healthcare provider even if you don’t think you’re hurt. An exam may catch injuries that have yet to show any symptoms. It also provides documentation that can serve as evidence if you pursue a boat accident claim.
  • Report the accident – Virginia boating laws require boat operators to report accidents involving injury, death, or property damage to the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (DWR).
  • Document the scene – If possible, take photos of the boat, injuries, property damage, and the water conditions. Visual confirmation to support your version of events can be some of the most powerful evidence you can gather.
  • Collect witness contact information – If there were any witnesses, gather their names and contact information. They may provide an unbiased third-party perspective of what happened before, during, and after the accident, lending credibility to your claim.
  • Be cautious when speaking with insurers – Insurance companies may reach out to you and offer a quick, lowball settlement or request a recorded statement. Insurers use these tactics to minimize payouts. Never admit fault, accept quick settlements, or provide recorded statements, and consult an attorney before speaking with them whenever possible.
  • Contact Marks & Harrison – An experienced personal injury lawyer at our conveniently located Alexandria office can inform you of your rights and lead you through the process of pursuing fair compensation. Contact us as soon as possible.

How Can an Alexandria Boating Accident Lawyer Help Me with My Case?

Boating accident claims can be complicated and confusing to pursue on your own. Working with a skilled boating accident attorney alleviates that burden from you so you can focus on recovery.

Our attorneys at Marks & Harrison can help in your personal injury case by taking steps such as:

  • Reviewing your case for free
  • Investigating the accident
  • Gathering evidence
  • Calculating your damages
  • Handling all insurance company communications
  • Negotiating for a fair settlement
  • Representing you in court if necessary.

Marks & Harrison has a long history of securing significant settlements and verdicts for our clients, including a deep background in boating accident cases. We have the knowledge, experience, and proven track record you need to feel confident that your case is in capable hands.

What Are the Main Causes of Alexandria Boat Accidents?

Boat accidents on the Potomac River and nearby waterways can happen in many ways. Some of the most common causes our Alexandria boat accident lawyers see include:

  • Operator inexperience
  • Alcohol use
  • Excessive speed
  • Distracted operation
  • Mechanical failures
  • Lack of safety equipment
  • Bad weather or water conditions.

Whether it was operator error, reckless behavior, or a mechanical malfunction, our attorneys will investigate the cause of your boating accident to determine who was responsible and build a compelling case for maximum compensation in your personal injury claim.

What Are Common Injuries in Boat Accidents in Alexandria?

Boating injuries are often serious, and sometimes life-threatening. They may require extensive medical treatment. Some of the most common injuries are:

  • Fractured bones
  • Soft tissue injuries
  • Lacerations and deep cuts
  • Burns from fire or explosions
  • Internal organ damage
  • Drownings or near-drowning injuries
  • Spinal cord injuries
  • Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs).

These injuries can require extensive medical care, rehabilitation, and long recovery times, all of which can result in significant costs. Our attorneys can help you pursue the compensation you need to cover those expenses.

What Boating Laws in Virginia Must Boat Operators Follow?

Virginia boating laws require boat owners and operators to do the following:

  • Boating safety course – To operate a boat in Virginia, you must complete a Virginia DWR-approved boating safety course.
  • Life jacket requirements – All boats must have U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets for each person on board, and children under 13 must wear them while underway, unless below deck or in an enclosed cabin.
  • BUI laws – Just like with motor vehicles, it’s illegal to operate a boat with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08 percent or higher.
  • Navigation rules – Operators must follow right-of-way and safe navigation rules to avoid collisions. If they don’t, any accidents may constitute operator liability.

Who Can Be Held Responsible for a Boat Crash?

Determining fault in a boat accident can be a complex process. Depending on the circumstances, the following parties may be held to be fi

  • The boat operator
  • The boat owner
  • A rental company
  • A manufacturer
  • Other negligent boaters.

Sometimes, more than one party is liable at the same time. Your attorney at Marks & Harrison will investigate all potentially liable parties and fight to hold each of them accountable.

Is There Compensation Available for a Boat Accident Lawsuit in Alexandria?

If you suffer serious injury in boat accident caused by someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to recover compensation for:

  • Current and future medical expenses
  • Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
  • Property damage
  • Pain and suffering
  • Emotional distress and mental anguish.

If you lost a loved one in a boating accident, you may have a valid wrongful death claim. Compensation for these claims can include funeral and burial expenses, loss of companionship and guidance, loss of financial support, and medical bills incurred by the deceased before their passing.

What Is the Statute of Limitations for Filing a Boating Accident Claim in Virginia?

Under Virginia law, you typically have two years from the date you suffer your boating injuries to file a personal injury lawsuit. Missing this deadline can mean losing your right to seek compensation.

Contact an Alexandria Boat Accident Lawyer

If you’ve suffered injuries in a boating accident caused by someone else’s negligence, the team at Marks & Harrison can help. We’ve been fighting for the rights of injured Virginians since 1911, and we’re ready to fight for you. Contact us today for your free consultation.