Greenville’s proximity to popular waterways like Lake Keowee and the Saluda River makes it a great location for boating and jet skiing enthusiasts. While these activities offer recreation and relaxation, they can also be risky. Boat and jet ski accidents can cause severe injuries, fatalities, and significant financial burdens for victims and their families.
If a person is hurt due to someone else’s negligence, they may be able to recover legal compensation. A Greenville boat accident lawyer can assist victims in navigating the legal process, identifying liable parties, and securing fair compensation. The Derrick Law Firm provides experienced legal representation for those affected by watercraft accidents in Greenville and the surrounding areas.
Common Causes of Boat and Jet Ski Accidents in Greenville
Determining the cause of a boat or jet ski accident is critical for establishing liability and building a strong legal claim. Some possible causes of accidents on the water include:
- Operator inexperience or recklessness. Some accidents result from operators who lack proper training or disregard safety protocols, leading to collisions, capsizing, or falls overboard.
- Boating under the influence (BUI). Alcohol and drugs impair coordination and judgment, increasing the likelihood of accidents. South Carolina law prohibits operating a watercraft with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08% or higher.
- Excessive speed. High speeds reduce reaction time, making avoiding obstacles, swimmers, or other vessels difficult.
- Equipment failure. Poor maintenance or defective parts, such as engine malfunctions or steering system failures, can lead to catastrophic accidents.
- Hazardous weather or water conditions. Sudden storms, strong currents, or low visibility contribute to dangerous boating environments. Boat operators can’t control the weather; they should take reasonable steps to monitor the weather forecast and maritime conditions.
- Inadequate safety equipment. Failure to provide life jackets, fire extinguishers, or distress signals can exacerbate injuries in an accident.
A Greenville boat accident lawyer can investigate the circumstances of an accident to determine whether negligence played a role and may be able to help victims pursue fair compensation if they have a case.
Types of Boat and Jet Ski Accident Injuries
Watercraft accidents can lead to severe, life-altering injuries due to high-impact collisions, propeller strikes, or prolonged submersion. Potential injuries include:
- Drowning and near-drowning incidents. Even experienced swimmers can struggle in emergencies, particularly if unconscious or trapped underwater.
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI). Blunt force trauma from collisions or falls can result in concussions, cognitive impairments, or permanent brain damage.
- Spinal cord injuries. Violent impacts or being ejected from a vessel may cause paralysis or long-term mobility issues.
- Broken bones and fractures. High-speed collisions or falls can lead to severe fractures that require surgical intervention.
- Lacerations and propeller injuries. Contact with boat propellers or debris can cause deep cuts, amputations, or fatal wounds.
- Burn injuries. Fuel leaks or onboard fires may result in severe burns requiring extensive treatment.
- Hypothermia. Prolonged exposure to cold water can lead to life-threatening conditions.
Victims of such injuries may face extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, and lost income. A Greenville jet ski accident lawyer can help assess the full scope of damages and pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other losses.
Legal Rights After a Boat or Jet Ski Accident
When negligence contributes to a boating or jet ski accident, victims may have legal recourse to seek compensation. Potentially liable parties include:
- Boat or jet ski operators who acted recklessly or under the influence
- Boat owners who failed to maintain their vessel properly
- Rental companies that provided defective or unsafe watercraft
- Manufacturers of faulty equipment or parts
South Carolina’s statute of limitations generally allows three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. However, gathering evidence promptly is crucial, as witness statements and physical evidence may become harder to obtain over time.
Possible Compensation for Accident Victims
Victims of boat and jet ski accidents may be entitled to various forms of compensation, including:
- Medical expenses. This covers emergency care, hospital stays, surgeries, medications, doctors’ appointments, physical therapy, and any future medical needs related to the accident.
- Lost income. Compensation may include income and benefits lost during recovery and diminished earning capacity if injuries prevent a return to previous employment.
- Pain and suffering. These damages account for physical pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life resulting from the accident.
- Wrongful death damages. In fatal accidents, surviving family members may recover compensation for funeral costs, loss of financial support, and loss of companionship.
A Greenville jet ski accident lawyer can evaluate all potential damages to ensure victims seek fair compensation.
Consequences of Boat and Jet Ski Accidents
A watercraft accident can have long-lasting effects on victims and their families, including:
- Physical disabilities. Severe injuries like spinal cord damage or traumatic brain injuries may result in permanent disabilities, requiring lifelong medical care and assistance.
- Financial strain. Mounting medical bills and lost income can create significant financial hardship, particularly if the victim was the primary provider.
- Emotional trauma. Survivors often experience anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress, especially in cases involving near-drowning or witnessing severe injuries.
- Impact on family dynamics. Serious injuries can alter family roles, with spouses or children often assuming caregiving responsibilities.
- Reduced quality of life. Injuries may prevent victims from participating in activities they once enjoyed.
These consequences highlight the importance of securing fair compensation to help victims rebuild their lives.
Steps to Take After a Boat or Jet Ski Accident
Taking prompt action after an accident may strengthen a potential legal claim. Victims should consider the following steps:
- Seek medical attention. Some injuries, such as internal bleeding or concussions, may not be immediately apparent. Prompt medical attention may help diagnose these injuries and prevent other injuries from worsening.
- Report the accident. South Carolina law requires boating accidents involving injuries, fatalities, or significant property damage to be reported to the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR).
- Document the scene. If possible, victims should take photos of the vessels, injuries, and surrounding conditions, and collect contact information from witnesses.
- Avoid discussing fault. Statements made to insurance adjusters or other parties could be used against the victim later.
- Consider consulting a Greenville jet ski accident lawyer. An attorney can handle communications with insurers and protect the victim’s legal rights.
For victims of boat or jet ski accidents in Greenville, seeking legal guidance early can make a significant difference in the outcome of their case.
How a Greenville Boat Accident Lawyer Can Assist Victims
Pursuing a legal claim after a watercraft accident can be complicated and time-consuming, particularly while recovering from injuries. A Greenville boat accident lawyer provides invaluable support by handling all legal aspects of the case, allowing victims to focus on their recovery.
An attorney may:
- Conduct a thorough investigation. This includes obtaining accident reports from the SCDNR, interviewing witnesses, and consulting with maritime experts to reconstruct the incident.
- Identify all liable parties. In some cases, multiple parties, such as the operator, rental company, or manufacturer, may share fault.
- Calculate full damages. An experienced lawyer will account for current and future medical expenses, lost earning capacity, and intangible losses like pain and suffering.
- Handle insurance negotiations. Insurance companies often attempt to minimize payouts. A lawyer can counter lowball offers and advocate for fair compensation.
- Prepare for litigation if necessary. While many cases settle out of court, an attorney will be ready to proceed to trial if the insurer refuses to offer a fair settlement.
Legal representation may also help accident victims avoid critical mistakes, such as missing legal deadlines or making statements that could potentially weaken their claim.
