Flagstaff Boat Accident Lawyer

Flagstaff Boating Accident Attorney

Arizona is a state equipped with wonderful outdoor recreation opportunities. While water recreation may not be the first of these opportunities to come to mind, Northern Arizona does contain enjoyable waterways, including Lake Powell, the Colorado River, and Lake Mary.

However, from 2015 to 2019, Arizona saw 535 boating accidents, which resulted in the death of 42 people. These statistics demonstrate that accidents happen out on the water, and if you plan on boating in Arizona, you should equip yourself with some knowledge about personal injury cases involving boat accidents. Keep reading to learn about negligent boating behavior, what to do in a boating accident, and what damages can be claimed in a personal injury case.

What are negligent boating behaviors?

Suppose a boat operator does not practice enough care to prevent endangering people, property, or wildlife. In that case, their actions are negligent in the eyes of the Arizona Game and Fish Department. To avoid liability in an accident, drivers need to be sure that they are following the area’s boating laws and regulations. They should also make sure that they are well aware of their surroundings and exercise caution.

The following negligent behaviors and instances have a strong likelihood of causing accidents:

• Driving a boat while distracted
• Operator inexperience
• Excessive speed, particularly in no-wake zones
• Boating in restricted areas
• Weaving through congested traffic
• Failure to follow boating navigation rules, such as deliberately moving against the flow of traffic
• Negligent boat maintenance
• Driving a boat while intoxicated
• Allowing passengers to ride in dangerous positions on the boat when moving faster than no-wake speeds
• Overloading a boat by exceeding the weight limit or maximum capacity of people allowed on board
• Agitating, following, or tormenting wildlife with your boat

What to do if a boating accident happens in Flagstaff, AZ?

If you do find yourself in an accident, Arizona law does require a few actions to take. First, you should turn off your boat engine and render any help that is needed at the scene. Provide any assistance that is necessary unless assisting would further endanger others. All operators/owners of any boats or property involved must provide personal contact information, including residential addresses, full names, and the boats’ identifying numbers.

The accident must also be reported to the nearest law enforcement agency. A report must be filed to the Arizona Game and Fish Department within 48 hours if any fatalities resulted from the event, or within 5 days if the cost of injuries or property damage amounts to over $500.

There are additional steps that are helpful to take after a boat accident, though they aren’t required by law. Make sure to receive medical care for resulting injuries in a timely fashion. To the best of your ability, gather as much documentation as you can. Take pictures of the scene, any property damage, and the resulting injuries. Keep track of all bills that result from the accident. Create a written account of what you recall about the accident.

Most importantly, hire a personal injury attorney. The right lawyer will walk you through your case and help determine what additional actions are needed to strengthen your claim.

Compensation for boating accidents in Arizona

It’s never enjoyable to think about getting into an accident, especially in circumstances that are meant to be fun. Do not let accidents hold you back from getting out on the water.

Personal injury claims ensure that if you do get injured in an accident that was not your fault, you can pursue compensation for all damages you suffer as a result. Economic and non-economic damages include:

• All medical bills and costs
• Any lost income your injuries incur
• Pain and suffering compensation
• Emotional injuries caused by the accident
• Any property damage resulting from the accident

A knowledgeable personal injury attorney will look at your specific case to determine what damages should be included in your claim.

Contact A Flagstaff Boat Accident Lawyer Today

Keep the stress out of your Northern Arizona boating experience. Glazer, Hammond & Smets, PLLC is a well-known law firm dedicated to making sure that accident victims are fully compensated in their personal injury suits.

Attorney Keith Hammond has the knowledge and experience to guide you through your case. Everyone may not always pay enough attention out on the water, but rest assured Glazer, Hammond & Smets, PLLC is ready to fight for boat accident victims. Don’t hesitate to get representation- reach out to Glazer, Hammond & Smets, PLLC, for all of your Northern Arizona personal injury needs.