Boating Accident Attorney Illinois

Motor Vehicle Collision Lawyers Representing Victims in Schaumburg and Wheaton

Boating may be an enjoyable summertime activity with family and friends. While boating is usually a great source of fun, it may also be dangerous. If you or someone close to you has been injured in a boating accident, you may be entitled to compensation for your harm. At Therman Law Offices, our Wheaton and Schaumburg boating accident attorneys understand this area of the law and can apply our knowledge to your case. We understand that the last thing that you may want to consider after a boating accident is a lawsuit, which is why our injury lawyers will try to make the process as seamless as possible.

Bringing a Boating Accident Claim

Boating accidents may refer to accidents involving a number of different types of watercraft, including private boats, yachts, sailboats, jet skis, and even ferries. The unfortunate reality is that boating accidents are more common than you may think. In Illinois, there are often nearly 100 boating accidents each year, in which dozens of people suffer serious or fatal injuries.

Boat owners and operators have a responsibility to operate their watercraft safely in order to protect passengers as well as others in the water. Unfortunately, this does not always happen. Boating accidents may happen for a variety of reasons, such as driver error, driver inexperience, the drunk or drugged operation of a boat, equipment failure, or a lack of driver training.

If you have been injured in a boating accident that was not your fault, you may be able to recover compensation through a negligence claim by enlisting a boating accident lawyer at our Schaumburg and Wheaton firm. Negligence occurs when boat owners or operators cause injuries or death by failing to use the degree of care that a reasonably prudent boat owner or operator would have used in the same or similar circumstances. Put another way, negligence takes place when a boat owner deviates from the expected standard of care and ends up causing an injury or death to someone else.

Illinois follows a modified comparative negligence principle, in which fault is assigned to each party involved in the accident according to their degree of responsibility. If you are determined to be partially at fault, your total recovery will be reduced by that amount. For example, you would be able to receive compensation for 90 percent of your damages if you are found to have been 10 percent at fault. It is important to note that under Illinois law, an individual who is more than 50 percent at fault for an accident will be barred from collecting any damages from the defendant.

In some cases, there may be several different parties that may be liable for the accident, and a plaintiff may seek to hold each of these parties responsible for their harm. A skilled lawyer can help you determine the potential defendants in your case and come up with a legal strategy accordingly.

Consult a Boating Accident Attorney in Schaumburg or Wheaton

Many times, people underestimate the dangers associated with watercraft-related activities. The unfortunate reality, however, is that many boating accidents take place in Illinois and throughout the U.S. each year. If you or a loved one has been injured or killed in a boating accident caused by someone else’s negligence, we are prepared to help you. At Therman Law Offices, our diligent Wheaton and Schaumburg boating accident lawyers can assess the merits of your case and provide you with an honest explanation of your legal options. We proudly represent people in Mt. Prospect, Arlington Heights, Hoffman Estates, Streamwood, Elgin, Bartlett, Hanover Park, Bensenville, Wood Dale, and Bloomingdale, among other cities in Cook County and elsewhere. To discuss your case in more detail, call us at 312-588-1900 or contact us online for a free consultation. We also are available to assist Illinois residents who need a car accident lawyer or representation in other types of motor vehicle collision claims.

Illinois Boating Accident Lawyer FAQs

Boating accidents can result in severe injuries, financial losses, and property damage. Knowing the common causes and understanding your legal rights is essential when pursuing compensation. With the right legal guidance, victims can take the necessary steps to hold negligent parties accountable and recover damages.

What Are The Most Common Causes Of Boating Accidents In Illinois?

Boating accidents in Illinois often occur due to operator inattention, speeding, boating under the influence (BUI), and mechanical issues. Weather conditions and inexperienced operators also play a role. Many of these incidents could be avoided with proper safety measures, but when they happen, the consequences can be severe. Victims may face medical bills, property damage, or lost income, which is where legal support becomes critical.

Who Can Be Held Responsible For A Boating Accident?

Responsibility can fall on the boat operator, the boat’s owner, a rental company, or even a manufacturer in cases involving equipment failure. If another party’s negligence caused the accident, they could be held accountable. Determining liability requires a thorough investigation, including reviewing police reports, witness statements, and any safety violations. Working with an Illinois boating accident lawyer can help us identify all responsible parties and build a solid case.

What Kind Of Compensation Can Victims Of Boating Accidents Pursue?

Victims may pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage. If the accident resulted in wrongful death, the family could seek additional damages related to funeral costs and loss of companionship. Every case is different, and compensation depends on the extent of injuries and losses involved. We focus on gathering the evidence needed to demonstrate the impact of the accident on your life.

What If The Other Party’s Insurance Company Contacts Me?

It’s common for insurance companies to reach out quickly after a boating accident. However, their goal is often to minimize the payout. Speaking with an attorney before giving a recorded statement is a smart move to avoid jeopardizing your claim. A lawyer can  guide you through communications with insurers to protect your rights and help you receive fair compensation.

How Can We Help If Someone Has Been Injured In A Boating Accident?

Our role is to gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and if needed, represent clients in court. We handle every step of the legal process to help you focus on recovery. With extensive experience in boating accident cases, we know how to seek fair compensation and hold negligent parties accountable.

If you or a loved one has been involved in a boating accident, contact Therman Law Offices, LTD to discuss your legal options. Speak with an Illinois boating accident lawyer today to see how we can assist with your case.