A Michigan boat accident lawyer is useful if you or someone else was seriously injured in a boating accident caused by another person, a truck or some other boat. These injury cases often demand hefty compensation for lost wages, medical bills, and pain and suffering. Thus, it is important to have a skilled boat accident lawyer on your side almost immediately following the accident. In Michigan, there are certain pre-established laws that govern boating and the negligence of others.
As per Michigan state law, a boat operator who operates a vessel without proper knowledge of Michigan boating laws and without exercising due care is guilty of negligent operation. If this is not proved, the operator can be sued for injuries or damages caused due to his/her conduct. If convicted, the offender has to pay compensation to the victims or their families. Some states also have a rule that makes it mandatory for a boat operator to remain with the boat while it is in motion. This is called as ‘permanent speech.’
Under Michigan’s personal injury laws, a Michigan boat accident lawyer may also help victims obtain the necessary information needed to fight their case. For instance, the lawyer may get the victim’s permission to take photos from different angles at the spot where the accident occurred so as to create a record of the actual event. Photos and videos can come in handy during the recovery process. He may also prepare a case evaluation for the victim to evaluate how much compensation will be derived from the claim.
While Michigan’s personal injury law provides plenty of room for making a claim, many boaters in Michigan are hesitant to pursue many of these cases. The reason is that the law provides an escape route for drunk and reckless motorists. Drunk and reckless conduct on the part of a boat operator is often times categorized as’reckless Disregard of Safety of Others’ or ‘Wreckless and Arrogant Conduct of a careless nature’. The law also covers other factors that can make a person liable for an accident – such as being unfit, not having legal insurance, driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol, operating a boat that is overweight or not properly maintained, or operating a boat that has been modified in any way. These factors make Michigan’s boat operator’s accountable for their actions. If you have been injured because of the negligence or recklessness of a boat operator, contact a Michigan boat accident lawyer immediately.
While drunk and reckless operation of a boat is considered a crime in Michigan, other actions taken by a boat operator may also constitute liability. Inducing someone else to drive a boat when they do not know how to operate it, failing to train the operator on proper safety procedures, operating a boat when the operator does not know the boat is insured, or failing to keep records can all be considered negligence. Inducing someone else to operate a vessel or failing to train the operator on proper safety procedures can also constitute liability. Operating a boat when the owner does not have legal coverage can be considered reckless and/or negligent. Failure to keep records, failing to keep boat insurance, and using a false representation about insured status can also constitute a violation of the law.
Many people make mistakes when boating. They may be inexperienced or may have poor judgment when using a vessel. Regardless, Michigan boating accidents can happen anytime and on any day. While Michigan law requires that boaters take reasonable care and avoid acts that may harm others, Michigan boating laws are very specific when it comes to what those laws require of the boater. To avoid having your day in court, it is important that you hire a knowledgeable and experienced Michigan boating accidents lawyer to handle your case.
Some common mishaps that may occur on Michigan waterways include collisions with other vehicles, injury or death caused by another boater’s boat, injuring or killing wildlife or damaging property along the waterways, hitting an animal or other vessel, injuring someone or damaging personal property because of negligence or reckless behavior by a boater. A Michigan boater’s lawyer should be consulted to determine the validity of a claim. Personal injury claims involving damage to personal property can be difficult for a person without specialized legal knowledge.
Many different types of accidents can happen on Michigan waterways and lakes. While some of the most common causes of boat accidents are other boaters who are negligent or reckless, others may occur due to elements of weather, such as bad weather or ice. Because of the many factors that may contribute to an accident, hiring a good Michigan boater’s lawyer can be the best way to protect your rights.
Looking for a Personal Injury Law Firm in Michigan?
Mike Morse Injury Law Firm
24901 Northwestern Hwy #700, Southfield, MI 48075, United States