Our Wisconsin boating accident lawyers know that we have many options and opportunities for getting out on the water and enjoying our lakes and rivers in the Badger State. Whether Wisconsin residents are spending a day on Lake Michigan, enjoying time at a cottage on a nearby lake, or time on one of the many Wisconsin rivers, there are plenty of opportunities for recreational boating. With this abundance of water, options comes a higher risk for Wisconsin boating accidents. In 2016 there were 108 total boating accidents that resulted in 21 deaths in the state of Wisconsin. Click here for the latest statistics from the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources.
Our Wisconsin boating accident lawyers represent clients in the Oak Creek area and throughout Wisconsin who have suffered personal injuries or lost loved ones in boating accidents and collisions. Many factors can contribute to a boating accident either on a privately owned vessel, a personal watercraft (jet ski), or even a ferry. Some of these factors include:
Additionally, unlike a car accident, an accident on the water is coupled with the added risk of drowning. As a general rule of law, a boat operator and its owner must exercise reasonable care to prevent injuries to those passengers in the boat or swimmers or others in the waters or boats around them. When an operator or owner fails to do so and someone suffers serious personal injuries, the injured party may be able to file a lawsuit to hold wrongdoers accountable.
However, many boat operators fail to exercise the same level of care that they do when they operate a motor vehicle and these operators fail to remember that a boat can be just as dangerous, if not more dangerous than a car.
Wisconsin law prohibits anyone from operating a motorboat or manipulating water skis or similar devices while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
After any boating accident, the accident should be reported to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources.
Feel free to call our office for a free case evaluation. Our Wisconsin boating accident lawyers will discuss your situation and go over all the options available to you, as well as work with insurance companies and other parties involved in your case to make sure all your needs are handled quickly and appropriately. Call us at 414-856-4010 or contact us.
