Pennsylvania Boating Accident Lawyer
Sadly, however, every year countless people are injured or killed in our waters through preventable accidents, many of which are alcohol related. Instead of enjoying the fun that our waters have to offer through boating, jet skiing, water skiing and swimming, families are forever destroyed and changed because of preventable water related accidents.
While the number of boats registered in Pennsylvania has been in steady decline, the number of PA boating accidents increased in 2011. According to the Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission, there were 87 recreational boating accidents reported in 2011, resulting in 59 injuries requiring medical treatment and 22 fatalities. Nearly $200,000 in property damage to vessels was reported. For boating accidents, preservation of evidence is critical. If you or a loved one has been injured in a boating accident, it is crucial to have an experienced boating accident lawyer involved from the start to ensure all of the necessary steps are being taken. The PA boating accident lawyers at Comitz Law Firm are dedicated to getting you the compensation you deserve.
Pennsylvania Boating Accident Injuries and Causes
Many boating accidents are preventable, and the importance of safe boating practices cannot be stressed enough. Of the 22 boating accident fatalities in 2011, only three of the victims were wearing life jackets at the time of the accident, although there were life jackets on board in 16 of the accidents, and only one of the 22 operators involved was known to have taken a boating education course.
In 2011, the most common type of boating accident in Pennsylvania was collision, including striking a submerged object as well as collisions with other vessels. The most commonly reported injury suffered in boating accidents was falls overboard. Other common accidents include capsizing, water skier accidents, fall in boat, as well as fires and explosions. Alcohol was a factor in three of the reported fatalities.
Reporting Pennsylvania Boating Accidents
Federal and Pennsylvania state law requires that accidents involving death, disappearance, or injuries requiring medical treatment beyond first aid be reported to the Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission within 48 hours by the operator of the boat involved. Accidents involving property damage exceeding $2,000 must be reported within 10 days.
Pennsylvania Boat Accident Lawyers
If you or a loved one has been injured in a Pennsylvania boating accident, it is important that you contact an experienced personal injury attorney. In boating accident cases, it is crucial to secure reports and evidence as quickly as possible to see that a formal investigation is completed. Attorney Jonathan Comitz is well-versed in state and federal boating regulations, and works with a team of investigators who will fight tirelessly on your behalf to get you the compensation you deserve. For a free consultation, contact Attorney Comitz at (570) 829-1111.