Virginia Beach Boat Accident Lawyer

Many Virginia Beach residents and visitors enjoy recreational boating to see the beautiful scenery and spend time with friends and family. The area is perfect for water lovers, boat owners, and operators. 

However, sustaining severe harm is also possible when negligence is involved. You have the right to file a lawsuit to pursue payment if someone else’s recklessness caused you harm. Contact our law firm to schedule a convenient time to meet with a seasoned Virginia Beach boat accident lawyer to learn more. Our personal injury attorneys could guide you through the claim process.

The Primary Causes of Boating Collisions 

Some of the primary causes of recreational boating collisions include the following: 

• Boater distractions and inattention
• Colliding with other boats or objects in the water 
• Improper maintenance and equipment failure
• Traveling at excessive speeds 
• Failure to wear lifejackets or ensure the vessel has working emergency equipment 
• Capsizing and sinking 
• Impaired watercraft operators 
• Failing to comply with safety rules and regulations 

Recreational watercraft collisions can leave operators, passengers, or occupants riding on other water vessels with life-threatening or fatal injuries and other losses. A Virginia Beach boat crash attorney could conduct an extensive investigation to find the reason and responsible party and fight for a just payment from them. 

State Department of Wildlife Resources

Boaters must operate watercraft safely and understand state rules and regulations before entering the water. The Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources is a state-operated organization that governs waterways, wildlife, and recreational boating. The agency seeks to promote safe boating practices while conserving natural wildlife. 

Studies show that the primary causes of recreational boating accidents and injuries are unsafe navigation practices and boats colliding with other vessels or fixed objects. Therefore, operators and passengers must understand and follow the rules or face violations and penalties. 

Navigation Rules

Examples of the three primary navigation rules enforced by the agency include the following: 

• Maintain safe speeds while boating, and remain vigilant of changing weather and water conditions to reduce speeds or take other action to prevent navigational hazards 
• Proper lookout is vital for all operators to watch and listen for hazards, warnings, and radio communications 
• Responsible and safe seamanship is essential for all boaters to avoid unsafe maneuvers and avoid colliding with others in the water around them 

It is unlawful for boaters to operate water vessels after consuming alcohol above the legal limit. As with motor vehicle drivers, the maximum blood alcohol content for watercraft operators is 0.08 percent, and violations could result in harsh penalties. During the appointment, a boat accident lawyer in Virginia Beach could answer questions about the rules of navigation and how they could affect a claim. 

Meet With a Proficient Boat Accident Attorney in Virginia Beach to Learn More 

Reckless actions of recreational watercraft operators or passengers can quickly turn a fun day in the sun into a tragic nightmare, leaving you with painful and debilitating injuries. You have options to obtain a settlement if you sustained bodily harm and other losses because of someone else’s thoughtless actions. A diligent and experienced Virginia Beach boat accident lawyer could provide sound legal advice and guidance and help you reach a favorable outcome. 

Call today to meet and review your case, options, and potential outcomes. The attorneys at The Law Firm of Carlton F. Bennett, P.L.L.C. have over 50 years of combined experience fighting for just outcomes and verdicts.