Wisconsin is home to over 15,000 lakes and miles of rivers, making it a popular destination for boating, jet skiing, and other water recreation. But with that comes risk, and each year people across the state are injured in boat and jet ski accidents caused by negligence, inexperience, or even alcohol use.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a boating or jet ski accident in Wisconsin, you may be wondering: What is the average settlement for these types of cases? While no two cases are alike, understanding the typical compensation ranges and what factors impact them is key to protecting your rights.
At Martin Law Office, we are proud to represent personal injury victims throughout Wisconsin, helping them recover compensation after life-changing accidents on the water. Here’s what you need to know.
Boat and jet ski accident settlements in Wisconsin typically range from $50,000 to over $500,000, depending on the severity of the injuries, liability, and available insurance coverage. In cases involving permanent disability, traumatic brain injury, or wrongful death, settlements can exceed $1 million.
It’s important to remember that average settlement amounts are only estimates. The true value of your case will depend on the specific facts and circumstances of your accident.
Watercraft accidents can happen in a split second and are often caused by negligence or reckless behavior. Some of the most common causes include:
Jet skis, also known as personal watercraft (PWC), are especially dangerous due to their speed and lack of protection. Accidents involving jet skis can result in catastrophic injuries even at lower speeds.
Boat and jet ski accidents often result in serious, sometimes life-threatening injuries, including:
These injuries often require extensive medical treatment, long-term rehabilitation, and time away from work leading to significant financial and emotional strain.
Several key factors will determine the potential settlement value in a Wisconsin boat or jet ski accident case:
More severe and permanent injuries typically result in higher settlements due to increased medical expenses, pain and suffering, and loss of future income.
Who was at fault? If the other operator was clearly negligent, such as operating under the influence or speeding, you may be entitled to higher compensation. Wisconsin follows a comparative negligence rule, which can impact the amount you recover if you’re found partially at fault.
Settlements often account for both current and future medical expenses, lost wages, reduced earning capacity, and necessary ongoing care.
Most boats and personal watercraft are insured, but coverage limits can vary widely. If the at-fault party is uninsured or underinsured, recovery options may be limited, unless additional assets or third-party liability can be pursued.
Compensation for emotional distress, disfigurement, pain and suffering, and loss of enjoyment of life is often a major portion of settlement value.
Having a trusted personal injury attorney on your side, especially one experienced in boat and jet ski accident claims, can significantly impact your ability to maximize your settlement.
In Wisconsin, boating accidents must be reported to the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) if they involve:
Failing to report can impact your ability to file a claim or pursue compensation. That’s why it’s important to consult a Wisconsin boating accident lawyer as soon as possible.
If you’re involved in a boating accident in Wisconsin, follow these steps to protect your rights:
With a strong reputation for personal injury litigation and a deep understanding of Wisconsin boating laws, Martin Law Office is ready to help you pursue justice. Whether you were injured on Lake Michigan, the Fox River, or any of Wisconsin’s beautiful waterways, our legal team will fight for the compensation you deserve.
Don’t let a watercraft accident upend your life. If you or someone you love has been injured in a boat or jet ski accident in Wisconsin, contact the experienced attorneys at Martin Law Office today by calling 414.856.4010 and get a FREE case consultation.
