Who is Responsible in a Boating Accident?

Recovering after a boating accident can be a physically, mentally, and financially exhausting journey. At Chelli & Bush, Attorneys at Law, our boating accident lawyers in Staten Island understand the burden you may be facing. With more than five decades of experience and over $500 million recovered for our clients, we’ve helped thousands of injury victims in Staten Island, Brooklyn, and surrounding areas get the compensation they deserve. We know how to determine who is liable after a boat accident and provide the strategic advocacy and compassionate support you need during this difficult time. 

Key Takeaways

• Liability for boat accidents typically rests on the shoulders of the person or entity that caused a collision or injury.
• Boat operators, owners, rental companies, and/or watercraft manufacturers may be responsible for damages, depending on the circumstances.
• Generally, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit in New York is three years.
• A personal injury attorney can help you understand your options and take legal action to preserve crucial evidence before it disappears. 

Common Causes of Boating Accidents

Common boating accident causes include:

• Operator inattention — Distraction is a leading cause of maritime collisions.
• Inexperience — Watercraft operators who lack proper training may not know how to navigate wakes or traffic correctly.
• Alcohol use — Boating Under the Influence (BUI) is just as illegal and dangerous as driving while using drugs or alcohol.
• Excessive speed — Traveling at high speeds near shorelines or in crowded areas can lead to devastating accidents.
• Equipment failure — When a boat's steering or engine fails, the results may be catastrophic.

Our Staten Island boating accident lawyers understand the complex factors that help us determine how an injury or wrongful death occurred. We often work closely with maritime specialists and accident reconstructionists to prove the cause of a crash. 

Determining Liability in Boating Accidents

Identifying who is responsible in a boat accident can be a convoluted process, as multiple parties may share liability. Our personal injury lawyers identify who is at fault and help you pursue all possible sources of compensation to protect your health and financial stability. 

A boat operator has a duty of care to operate a vessel safely. If they were speeding, distracted, or intoxicated, they may be responsible for any injuries that result from an accident. 

Sometimes, a defective part or design can cause accidents and injuries. If the throttle, navigation system, engine, or other equipment malfunctions and someone gets hurt, the manufacturer may be liable for damages. This is also true if a watercraft’s poor design resulted in an injury or death. 

Even if the owner of a boat isn’t operating it when an injury occurs, they can be liable if negligence was involved. Rental companies and public entities may also be held accountable if they failed to provide necessary safety gear or launched a watercraft that was unsafe. 

Legal Options for Injured Victims and their Families After a Boating Accident

If you’ve been injured, it’s vital to seek the advice of a local, experienced boating accident lawyer to find out whether you have a case and determine the full scope of your losses. Our Staten Island boating accident attorneys are familiar with the technical and jurisdictional complexities of maritime law and liability insurance and can help you understand your rights under the law.

Insurance companies often use underhanded tactics to shift blame, offer low settlements, or deny claims. Our boating accident attorneys handle all communications and negotiations with strength, strategy, and patience. If a reasonable settlement can’t be reached, our skilled team is always ready to take your case to trial.

Types of Damages in Boating Accident Cases

Catastrophic injuries sustained in boating accidents can require costly medical treatment and long-term care. A victim may not be able to work or do things they once enjoyed. Our personal injury attorneys know how to accurately value your claim and can help you pursue damages such as:



• Past and future medical bills
• Wage loss
• Loss of earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Disfigurement or permanent disability
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Loss of consortium
• Wrongful death damages

Why Choose Chelli & Bush?

Our legal team understands that you may be facing one of the most challenging times of your life. We approach every case with the compassion and tenacity it deserves. With us, you get:

• Decades of local experience — Our Staten Island personal injury lawyers have advocated for victims and their families for more than 50 years. We understand the nuances of the local courts and are familiar with insurance adjusters and attorneys in the area.
• Compassionate advocacy you can trust — You’re much more than just a case number at our personal injury law firm. We treat our clients like family. We always keep you updated so you can focus on healing.
• Proven results— With more than $500 million recovered for clients in New York, we have the resources, experience, and resolve to take on powerful insurance companies and win.
• No upfront costs— Our lawyers take cases on a contingency fee basis, which means you won’t pay attorneys’ fees unless we successfully recover compensation for you.

Talk to a Boating Accident Lawyer Near You in Staten Island

If you or a loved one has been hurt in a boating accident, our team at Chelli & Bush, Attorneys at Law, is here to take the weight off your shoulders and protect your rights. To schedule a free consultation with a boating accident attorney near you in Staten Island, NY, contact us or call 718-987-8444. We serve clients in Staten Island, Brooklyn, and surrounding areas. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Boating Accident Claims

What should I do immediately after a boating accident?

Ensure everyone is safe and seek medical attention immediately. If possible, take photos of the scene and your injuries, obtain contact information from all operators and witnesses, and report the accident to the proper authorities. Before speaking to any insurance company representative, contact our boating accident lawyers in Staten Island.

How long do I have to file a boating accident claim in New York?

In New York, the statute of limitations for personal injury lawsuits is generally three years. However, boating accident cases involving public entities and federal maritime laws may shorten this window, so it’s important to contact a personal injury attorney as soon as you can.

How can a personal injury lawyer help after a boating accident?

Hiring an attorney gives you the best chance of a successful outcome for your case. Our team investigates, handles all communications with insurers, and works closely with experts to create compelling arguments and effective strategies that get results for our clients. Having an experienced boating accident attorney by your side can also give you the peace of mind you need to move forward with confidence.