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Lake Forest Boat Accident Lawyer
With its dazzling lakes and waterways, Lake Forest is a common place for boaters. But this also means that the chances of experiencing a boating accident are much higher, and the results of these accidents might leave individuals with painful injuries. If you are suffering because of a boating accident that was the result of another person’s negligence, contact a Lake Forest boat accident lawyer today. Consulting with a dedicated personal injury lawyer is important to ensure that you approach the case with an understanding of the laws connected to it. The civil laws surrounding boating accidents are often complex and confusing, which may be even more difficult to comprehend when you are suffering from an injury but an attorney could help.
Boating Accident Laws in Lake Forest
After a boating accident, anyone involved is obligated under California Harbors and Navigation Code § 656 to file a report under certain conditions. The law in Lake Forest requires a report to be filed within 48 hours of the accident if it involves:
- A serious injury requiring professional attention
- A disappearance
- Death that occurs in the 24 hours following the accident
For accidents that involve death taking place more than 24 hours after the accident, property damage that exceeds $500, or the complete loss of a vessel, individuals are required to file a report within ten days of the accident. Failing to meet any of the requirements above may leave boat drivers vulnerable to legal action. Understanding how these laws affect the drivers involved in the accident is one of the reasons why victims should contact a Lake Forest boat accident lawyer as soon as possible.
Compensation for Boating Crashes
If the victim of a boating accident can prove negligence, they may be entitled to compensation for damages resulting from the accident. Unlike other states, California does not place caps on the damages that can be sought by those injured in boating accidents.
Damages that may be available include:
- Loss of wages
- Medical expenses
- Lost earning capacity
- Loss of quality of life
- Mental anguish
Under certain conditions, punitive damages may also be available if the behavior of the at-fault party was especially egregious. The specific damages available in a claim depend on the specific circumstances of the accident. For help determining what compensation may be appropriate, it may be wise to speak with a Lake Forest boat accident attorney.
Bringing a Successful Claim
There are many causes of boating accidents that can be considered negligence, including intoxication, excessive speed, operator inattention, and improper lookout. But there are also causes beyond operator control, such as hazardous waters. Due to the complexity of the circumstances that can cause an accident, proving fault may be difficult. However, it is also required by CA Civil Code §1714 for individuals that seek compensation.
In addition, Lake Forest operates under the “pure comparative negligence” law adopted following Li v. Yellow Cab Co., 532 P.2d 1226 (1975). This law requires compensation to be adjusted based on the plaintiff’s proportion of fault. For example, if the victim of a boating accident was speeding, they might be deemed 40 percent responsible for the accident, meaning they are only entitled to 60 percent of the total compensation they would otherwise receive.
Finally, CA Code of Civil Procedure § 335.1. states that individuals must file a lawsuit within two years from the date of the accident. The only exception is in the rare case where victims do not discover the injury until a later date—in this case, the suit must be filed within one year of discovery. Due to the complexity of the laws surrounding boating accidents, it is important to work with a well-versed Lake Forest boat accident attorney who understands what it takes to bring a successful claim.
How a Lake Forest Boat Accident Attorney Could Help
If you are suffering due to injuries experienced from the negligence of another, contact a Lake Forest boat accident lawyer as soon as possible. With the right guidance and support, you may be able to receive compensation for your pain. A skilled attorney can stand by your side throughout the process to help you get the justice you deserve. Call today to get started.