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Tulsa Boating Accident Attorney
Where there are boats, there are bound to be boating accidents. If you’ve been injured in a boating accident someone else caused, they could be responsible for your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
When a fun afternoon on the water becomes a nightmare, it might be time to call an experienced Tulsa boating accident attorney. The team at Edwards & Patterson Law can seek compensation while you focus on getting better. Our case results speak to our determination and talent for helping injured people recover compensation from negligent parties. Contact Edwards & Patterson Law for a free consultation about your boating accident case.
What Are the Most Common Causes of Tulsa Boating Accidents?
Oklahoma has over 200 lakes and a shoreline longer than the Gulf and Atlantic coasts combined. Its warm weather makes aquatic activities like fishing, swimming, driving jet skis, and boating popular recreation for Sooners of all ages. Unfortunately, these activities are not without risks, especially when boaters engage in unsafe behaviors like:
- Speeding
- Drinking alcohol or taking drugs
- Inexperienced operation
- Inattention and distraction
- Operating in dangerous weather
Other accidents are caused by malfunctioning or defective parts and poor maintenance.
What Are the Most Frequent Types of Boating Accidents?
Every year, the U.S. Coast Guard reports dozens of accidents involving recreational boats and watercraft in Oklahoma. Many of these accidents include the following common types:
- Collisions – Collisions are among the most common types of boating accidents. They can occur when one boat crashes into another vessel or a fixed or floating object, such as a dock, buoy, or submerged rock. Many collisions result from operator inattention, inexperience, or impaired judgment.
- Passengers falling overboard – Slippery decks, sudden boat maneuvers, large waves, or even a simple loss of balance can all send passengers plunging off their vessels. Once in the water, they are at risk of drowning, hypothermia, or being hit by other vessels. Boaters should wear life jackets and know their surroundings to reduce this risk.
- Capsizing – Overloading, poor weight distribution, strong winds, large waves, and treacherous waters all increase the risk of this potentially devastating accident. Capsizing is particularly dangerous because it can trap passengers underneath the boat or throw them into the water. This leads to potential drownings or exposure to harsh environmental conditions.
- Propeller-related accidents – Boat propellers can cause serious injuries or death if they strike someone. Such accidents often occur when the boat is in “drive” mode and someone is in the water near the stern. It’s essential to ensure the ship’s engine and propellers are off before anyone enters or exits the water near the boat.
- Boat fires – Fuel leaks, electrical malfunctions, or the improper storage of flammable materials can cause boat fires. Fires on boats can spread rapidly due to combustible materials. The confined space also makes it challenging for passengers to escape, leading to burn injuries, smoke inhalation, or loss of life.
- Carbon monoxide poisoning – Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless gas released by the incomplete combustion of materials such as gasoline, natural gas, and propane. Prolonged exposure can lead to symptoms like headaches, dizziness, nausea, unconsciousness, or even death. Boats, especially those with enclosed cabins, can accumulate CO due to inadequate ventilation. CO poisoning often occurs when the boat is idling or traveling slowly.
What Injuries Frequently Result from Boating Accidents?
The Coast Guard reports that drowning was the cause of death in 75 percent of fatal boating accidents in one recent year. Other common injuries that occur from boating accidents include:
- Head injuries, including traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Spinal cord injuries
- Near-drowning
- Cuts and lacerations
- Fractures or broken bones
- Burns
What Should I Do If I Am Involved in a Tulsa Boat Accident?
The most crucial action to take after a boat accident is seeking medical attention. Doing so is essential for your best health outcome. The medical records it establishes can also make it easier to seek compensation. Here are other suggested steps after a Tulsa watercraft accident:
- Keep hospital and medical bills.
- Follow up with your physician for medication, visits, and rehabilitation.
- Start a pain journal.
- Refrain from posting photos or comments about the accident on social media.
- Talk to a Tulsa boating accident attorney.
How Do I Know That I Have a Valid Boat Accident Claim?
You could have a valid boat accident claim if someone else was to blame for your injuries because of their negligent, reckless, or deliberately harmful behavior. A Tulsa boating accident lawyer can evaluate your case and help determine if you have a valid claim. Contact our Tulsa personal injury lawyer today.
What Damages Can I Collect for My Injuries?
You should not have to pay for someone’s negligent or reckless actions. An attorney can objectively assess the financial, physical, and emotional harm you suffered and seek appropriate compensation in the form of damages. This could include money for your:
- Medical care expenses
- Rehabilitation costs
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
Is There a Limited Time for Filing a Boat Accident Lawsuit?
Oklahoma has a statute of limitations for personal injury cases, including those stemming from boating accidents. Typically, victims have two years from the date of their injury to file a lawsuit. It’s critical to consult with an attorney promptly to ensure you have enough time.
How Can a Tulsa Boating Accident Lawyer Help Me?
A Tulsa boating accident lawyer is a crucial ally as you fight for the compensation you deserve. They can:
- Investigate the accident
- Collect evidence to support your case
- Calculate the financial cost of the harm you suffered
- Negotiate with insurance companies
- Represent you in court if necessary
While they do all this, you can focus on recovering from your injuries and returning to your life. And because most boating accident lawyers in Tulsa work on contingency, you’ll only owe your attorney a fee if they recover compensation for you first.
Contact a Tulsa Boating Accident Lawyer
If you or a loved one was hurt in a boating accident in Tulsa, seek legal guidance immediately. Edwards & Patterson Law has a proven track record of getting our clients the money they need to rebuild their lives. You do not have to deal with the aftermath of a Tulsa boating accident alone. Contact our award-winning law firm today for a free consultation.
