Boating Accident Attorney in Tulsa, Oklahoma
Located between the Ozark Mountains and the Great Plains, Oklahoma is among the landlocked states in the United States. Regardless, rivers, reservoirs, and lakes across the state—including Broken Bow Lake, Lake Murray, Fort Supply Reservoir, and more—offer amazing opportunities for boating, fishing, skiing, scuba diving, and other outdoor water activities. However, like motorists on the road, boaters are also exposed to potential risks, accidents, and mishaps.
If you or someone close to you was hurt in a boating accident caused by someone else's negligence or carelessness, you are within your rights to pursue fair financial compensation through an injury claim. At the Law Offices of Jeff Martin, we are ready and poised to guide and represent boating accident victims in their injury claims. Our highly-skilled Oklahoma personal injury attorneys will fight vigorously for your best interests and help you pursue the maximum available damages for your injuries.
The Law Offices of Jeff Martin proudly serves clients in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and surrounding areas throughout Eastern Oklahoma, including McAlester, Muskogee, and Bartlesville.
Boating Accidents in Oklahoma
To lawfully operate your vessel on public waters in Oklahoma, you must have a valid Oklahoma Certificate of Registration and validation decals. Generally, all watercraft—motorized vessels and boats—must be registered in the state, except:
- Manually propelled vessels without motors, such as kayaks, canoes, and paddle boats.
- Vessels already registered in another state but using Oklahoma waters for less than 60 days.
- U.S. Coast Guard documented vessels using Oklahoma waters for less than 60 days.
- Vessels that are used exclusively for racing purposes alone.
Types of Boating Accidents
Some common causes and types of boating accidents include the following:
- Equipment failure
- Collisions with other vessels or boats
- Fires
- Collisions with fixed objects
- Accidents involving someone on a towable object
- Hitting a wave
- Carbon monoxide poisoning
- Capsizing, swamping, sinking, or running aground
- Hitting another boat's wake
- Explosions
- Operator errors
- Falls overboard
- Accidents involving a skier
- Flooding
- Failure to have the necessary safety equipment on board
If you (or a loved one) were involved in a boating accident caused by a negligent party, reach out to a reliable personal injury attorney immediately. Your legal counsel can review all of the surrounding facts of your unique situation carefully, help identify the negligent party, and seek to prove fault, fighting for the compensation you deserve.
Liability for a Boating Accident
Depending on the surrounding circumstances and events leading to the incident, several parties or entities may be held responsible for a boating crash.
These include the following:
- The owner or driver of the other boat that was involved in the accident
- The owner or driver of the boat the injured person was riding
- The owner of the dock
- The manufacturer of the boat or equipment
- Drunk boating
- Any other party who carelessly or negligently contributed to the boating accident or your injuries
Don’t face this alone. At the Law Offices of Jeff Martin, our lawyers can advocate for your best interests, help determine the liable party, prove negligence, and file multiple claims on your behalf.
Proving Negligence
Furthermore, to prove fault and establish liability in a boating accident claim, the claimant must prove the following elements:
- The at-fault party (defendant) owed you a legal duty of care.
- The defendant breached their expected duty of care by acting negligently.
- The defendant's breach or careless actions caused your injuries.
- You suffered physical injury, actual harm, or other damages and losses from the incident.
Reliable and skilled lawyers can assess the magnitude of your injuries and damages, seek to establish liability, and attempt to pursue your rightful financial compensation.
Compensable Damages
The following damages may be recovered by filing a boating accident claim in Oklahoma:
- Medical expenses, including the cost of ongoing and future medical treatments
- Medical supplies and medication
- Lost income and other benefits
- Lost or reduced earning capacity
- Physical therapy
- Physical impairment
- Emotional distress
- Disfigurement
- Replacement or repair of damaged property
- Mental anguish
- Disability
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Attorney fees and court costs
- Loss of consortium
- Wrongful death damages, if applicable
- Punitive damages to further punish the defendant for their egregious conduct
A trusted attorney can walk you through the personal injury claims process and help you pursue fair financial compensation for your injuries, damages, and losses.
Work With a Seasoned Personal Injury Attorney
Getting hurt in a boating accident can be difficult and unsettling. Such an unfortunate incident can hurt you physically, mentally, and financially. Nonetheless, you don't have to suffer the financial liability and pain all on your own. Therefore, when injured in a boating accident, retaining a seasoned personal injury attorney is imperative to help protect your rights and pursue fair financial compensation.
At the Law Offices of Jeff Martin, we have devoted our careers to advocating for the best interests of boating accident victims and their families. Using our extensive knowledge, we can guide you through the complex procedures involved in filing claims and seeking damages.
Contact Us ASAP - Our dedicated team of experienced boating accident injury attorneys are here to help you recieve the maximum compensation that you deserve. With a deep understanding of Oklahoma's laws and a commitment to advocating for our clients, we will fight tirelessly to protect your rights and secure the best possible outcome for your case. Don't delay, and let us help you reclaim your peace of mind.
FAQs
How Is Liability Determined In Boating Accident Personal Injury Cases?
Liability is an important factor in any personal injury case, including boating accidents. In the state of Oklahoma, determining liability in boating accident personal injury cases follows general principles of negligence law.
What Is Negligence?
Negligence is defined as the failure to exercise reasonable care that a reasonably prudent person would have exercised under the same circumstances. In other words, it is the failure to act in a way that a responsible person would have acted in a similar situation.
How Is Negligence Determined In Boating Accident Personal Injury Cases?
To determine negligence in boating accident personal injury cases, four elements must be proven:
- Duty of Care: The defendant (person or entity being sued) owed a duty of care to the plaintiff (injured party).
- Breach of Duty: The defendant breached this duty by failing to act as a reasonably prudent person would have acted.
- Causation: The defendant's breach of duty was the direct cause of the plaintiff's injuries.
- Damages: The plaintiff suffered actual damages because of the defendant's breach of duty.
Who Can Be Held Liable In Boating Accident Personal Injury Cases?
In Oklahoma, anyone who is responsible for the boat, or the operation of the boat may be held liable in a boating accident personal injury case. This includes:
- Boat owners
- Operators (captains) of the boat
- Rental companies
- Manufacturers of faulty equipment on the boat
- Other parties who contributed to the accident through their actions or negligence
What If Both Parties Are At Fault?
In some cases, both parties may be found at fault in a boating accident personal injury case. In these situations, Oklahoma follows a comparative negligence rule, which means that each party's percentage of fault will determine the amount of damages they are responsible for paying.
For example, if a plaintiff is found to be 20% at fault and the defendant is found to be 80% at fault, the defendant would only be responsible for paying 80% of the total damages.
What Should I Do Immediately After A Boating Accident?
If you have been involved in a boating accident in the state of Oklahoma, it is important to take certain steps immediately after the incident. These steps can help protect your safety and your legal rights.
- Seek Medical Attention: The priority after any injury is to seek medical attention for yourself and anyone else who may be injured. Even if you do not think you are seriously injured, it is important to get checked out by a medical professional.
- Report the Accident: In Oklahoma, all boating accidents must be reported to the Oklahoma Highway Patrol Marine Enforcement Division within 10 days of the incident. Failure to report an accident can result in penalties and fines.
- Document the Scene: Take photos or videos of the accident scene, including any damage to the boat and any injuries sustained. These can be helpful in proving liability and damages in a personal injury case.
- Gather Information: Exchange contact and insurance information with all parties involved in the accident, as well as any witnesses who may have seen what happened.
- Contact an Attorney: If you have been injured in a boating accident, it is important to seek legal representation to protect your rights and help you receive fair compensation for your injuries. An experienced personal injury attorney can guide you through the process and ensure that your rights are protected.
What Compensation Can I Receive In A Boating Accident Personal Injury Case?
The compensation you can receive in a boating accident personal injury case in the state of Oklahoma may vary depending on the specifics of your case. In general, however, common types of compensation that may be available include:
- Medical expenses: This includes any costs associated with medical treatment for injuries sustained in the boating accident, such as hospital bills, doctor visits, surgeries, and rehabilitation.
- Lost wages: If you were unable to work due to your injuries, you may be able to receive compensation for lost wages. This can include both past and future lost earnings.
- Pain and suffering: Compensation for pain and suffering is intended to compensate the victim for the physical and emotional distress caused by their injuries.
- Property damage: If your personal property was damaged in the boating accident, you may be able to receive compensation for the cost of repairs or replacement.
- Punitive damages: In certain cases, punitive damages may be awarded as a form of punishment for extremely reckless or malicious behavior on the part of the defendant.
It is important to note that every case is unique and the amount of compensation you may receive will depend on the specific circumstances of your case. An experienced personal injury attorney can help evaluate your case and determine what types of compensation may be available to you.
In addition, it is important to remember that punitive damages are not available in all cases and must be proven by clear and convincing evidence.
How Long Do I Have To File A Boating Accident Lawsuit In Oklahoma?
In the state of Oklahoma, there is a specific time frame in which you must file a boating accident personal injury lawsuit. This is known as the statute of limitations, and it varies depending on the type of case.
For boating accident personal injury cases, the statute of limitations is two years from the date of the accident. This means that you have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit against the responsible parties. If you fail to file within this time frame, you may lose your right to seek compensation for your injuries.
It is important to note that this two-year deadline applies only to personal injury cases, not property damage claims. If you are seeking compensation for property damage sustained in a boating accident, the statute of limitations may differ, and it is important to consult with an attorney to ensure that you file within the appropriate time frame.
If you have been injured in a boating accident in the state of Oklahoma, it is important to understand your rights and options for seeking compensation. By taking immediate action, gathering evidence, and seeking legal representation, you can increase your chances of receiving fair compensation for your injuries.
Can I Sue For A Boating Accident If I Wasn't Wearing A Life Jacket?
Yes, it is possible to file a boating accident personal injury lawsuit in Oklahoma even if you were not wearing a life jacket at the time of the accident. However, not wearing a life jacket may affect your case and potential compensation.
Under Oklahoma law, all individuals under 13 years of age are required to wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket while on a moving vessel, but it is highly recommended for all individuals to always wear one while boating.
If you were injured in a boating accident and were not wearing a life jacket, the defendant may use this as evidence of your own negligence and liability for your injuries.
However, not wearing a life jacket does not automatically bar you from seeking compensation in a personal injury case. An experienced attorney can help evaluate the specifics of your case and determine how not wearing a life jacket may impact your case. It is important to seek legal guidance as soon as possible after the accident to ensure that all evidence is properly gathered and evaluated.
What Role Do State Boating Laws Play In A Personal Injury Case?
State boating laws can play a crucial role in a personal injury case involving a boating accident. These laws are designed to regulate and promote safe boating practices, and they may be used as evidence of negligence or liability in a personal injury case.
In Oklahoma, all individuals operating or riding on a vessel are required to follow state boating laws, including speed limits, traffic patterns, and safety regulations. If a boating accident occurs due to a violation of these laws, it may be used as evidence of negligence on the part of the responsible party.
Furthermore, state boating laws may also impact the amount of compensation that can be awarded in a personal injury case. For example, if it is found that a defendant was grossly negligent or violated a specific boating law, punitive damages may be awarded as a form of punishment.
State boating laws are an important factor to consider in a personal injury case involving a boating accident. An experienced attorney can help evaluate the role of these laws and how they may impact your case.
Are Boating Accident Cases Handled Differently Than Car Accidents?
In the state of Oklahoma, personal injury cases involving boating accidents and car accidents are generally handled in a similar manner. Both types of cases require evidence to prove negligence or liability on the part of the defendant, and both may involve seeking compensation for various damages.
One key difference between these types of cases is that boating accidents typically involve bodies of water, which can add an additional layer of complexity to the case. This may require hiring experts or conducting thorough investigations to determine how the accident occurred and who is responsible.
Additionally, boating accidents may involve different laws and regulations than car accidents, as mentioned previously with state boating laws. It is important to have an attorney familiar with both types of cases to effectively represent your interests and seek fair compensation for your injuries.
Overall, while there may be some differences in the details of handling boating accident and car accident personal injury cases, the overall legal process is generally similar in Oklahoma. It is important to seek experienced legal guidance in either type of case to ensure that your rights are protected, and you receive the compensation you deserve.
What Evidence Is Crucial In A Boating Accident Personal Injury Claim?
To have a successful boating accident personal injury claim in the state of Oklahoma, there are several pieces of evidence that are crucial to gather and present. Some of the most important pieces of evidence include:
- Police/Incident Report: If law enforcement was called to the scene of the accident, a police or incident report will likely be filed. This report can provide important details about the accident and may include witness statements.
- Photographs/Videos: Visual evidence of the accident scene, including any damage to vessels or injuries sustained, can be crucial in proving negligence or liability.
- Medical Records: Any medical records and bills related to treatment for your injuries should be documented and included in your claim.
- Witness Statements: Statements from witnesses who saw the accident occur can provide valuable information and support your case.
- Expert Testimony: In some cases, hiring experts such as accident reconstructionist or medical professionals can provide important evidence to support your claim.
By gathering and presenting these pieces of evidence, you can build a strong case seeking compensation in a boating accident personal injury claim. It is important to work with an experienced attorney who can help guide you through the process and ensure that all crucial evidence is properly gathered and presented.
How Common Are Boating Accidents In Oklahoma?
Boating accidents are unfortunately not uncommon in the state of Oklahoma. In fact, according to the Oklahoma Highway Safety Office, there were 73 reported boating accidents in the state in 2020 alone. These accidents resulted in 35 injuries and 9 fatalities.
Additionally, data from the U.S. Coast Guard shows that Oklahoma ranks among the top states for number of registered boats, with over 500,000 registered vessels. With such a high number of boats on the water, it is even more important for individuals to follow state boating laws and take proper safety precautions.
Despite efforts to promote safe boating practices, accidents still occur. That's why it is important for victims of boating accidents to seek legal guidance and hold negligent parties accountable for their actions.
By raising awareness about the prevalence of boating accidents in Oklahoma, we can work towards preventing them in the future and ensuring justice for those who have been affected by them.
How Can I Minimize The Chances Of Suffering A Boating Accident Injury?
There are several steps you can take to minimize the chances of suffering a boating accident injury in Oklahoma. The first and most important step is to always follow state boating laws and regulations. These laws are in place to promote safe boating practices and should be taken seriously.
Additionally, make sure that you have all necessary safety equipment on board, including life jackets for all passengers. It is also important to be aware of your surroundings and any potential hazards on the water, such as other boats or changes in weather.
It is also recommended to take a boating safety course before operating a vessel, as this can provide valuable knowledge and skills for safe boating practices. Finally, never operate a boat under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
By following these guidelines and taking proper precautions, you can greatly reduce the chances of being involved in a boating accident and suffering injuries. Remember, safety should always be the top priority when enjoying Oklahoma's beautiful lakes and waterways.
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