Houston’s sweltering summers and easy access to water make boating a popular activity in the area. Unfortunately, crowded waters can lead to boating collisions, which can turn an enjoyable day on the water into a traumatic experience that causes severe injuries.

If you were injured in a wreck, you may be eligible for compensation to help pay for medical bills and other costs associated with your injuries. However, proving liability in Houston boat accident claims can be challenging.

An experienced boat crash attorney could help you establish fault and negotiate with insurers to ensure you get fair compensation. Call KGS Law Group today for more information.

Who is Liable for a Boat Accident?

Liability in Houston boating collisions is typically complex and often includes multiple parties. This can complicate the process for injured parties attempting to get compensation. Depending on the circumstances, any of the following individuals may be found partially or fully responsible for injuries that occurred:

Boat Operators

An operator who speeds or operates a vessel while under the influence of alcohol or other substances fails to provide reasonable safety for passengers and other boaters. This can include the operator of a boat on which passengers sustained injuries or the operator of another boat that caused a collision.

Passengers

Reckless behavior is common in water activities, potentially leading to injuries. Boat passengers acting recklessly can prevent the boat operator from fulfilling their duties or contribute to their own injuries. However, Texas’s modified comparative negligence laws state that if an individual is found 51% or less at fault, they can pursue damages minus the percentage of their fault.

Boat Owners

Private and commercial boat owners can be held responsible for the actions of operators who use their vessels. If a private boat owner loans a boat to an underqualified operator, they may be found partially at fault for injuries on the boat. Similarly, commercial companies that hire boat operators are responsible for confirming operator qualifications and investigating past incidents before putting someone in charge of operating a company-owned vessel.

Boat Companies

When mechanical failures cause an accident, boat manufacturers or rental companies may be found liable for injuries. However, establishing liability requires proof that the entity was aware of the issues and allowed the vessel to be used with potential dangers.

What Types of Compensation Can You Get for Boating Accidents?

Boating passengers have little protection against the elements, and water accidents can be particularly dangerous. Those injured in boating wrecks are entitled to economic and non-economic damages to help them recover from their damages and trauma. Types of compensation from the liable party in a Houston boat accident claim may include the following:

  • Current medical costs
  • The costs of future treatments, including surgeries, therapy, and rehab
  • Emotional anguish related to the incident or long-term recovery
  • Lost wages if injuries render a victim unable to work
  • Property damage

The compensation a person is eligible for depends on the specific details of the accident. A knowledgeable personal injury attorney could help injured parties understand which types of damages apply to their case.

Learn More About Proving Liability in Houston Boat Accident Claims

Collisions on the water are often overwhelming and confusing. The resulting injuries can impact every part of your life. Unfortunately, proving liability in Houston boat accident claims is often difficult. Working with a seasoned lawyer could streamline the process and ensure you do not agree to a settlement that is less than you deserve.

The skilled attorneys at KGS Law Group are experienced in handling boat accident claims and the complexities involved. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation and learn about your options for compensation after sustaining injuries in a water vessel wreck.