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Las Vegas Boating Accident Lawyers

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If you and your family like to enjoy boating on Lake Tahoe or on any other of Nevada’s rivers and lakes, it is important you understand your legal rights if an accident occurs. No one wants to think about the possibility of a boating accident, but the truth is that mistakes can be made, and negligent or intoxicated boat operators on the water can turn an enjoyable day on the water into a traumatic one.

Common Causes of Nevada Boating Accidents

There are many potential causes of a serious boating accident in Nevada. Injured victims of boat crashes may need to prove who caused the accident before being able to hold that person liable for injuries and damages related to the crash. Common causes of Nevada boating accidents include:

  • Inexperienced boaters: In Nevada, anyone who operates a vessel that tows a person on a surfboard, water skis, or any other device must be at least 14-years-old or at least 12-years-old and have a person aboard the boat who is at least aged 21. Inexperienced boaters are a serious hazard on the waterways, which is why the state requires anyone who operates a vessel that is powered by a motor over 15 horsepower and were born on or after January 1, 1983 must take and pass a boater education course or proficiency exam. However, many boat operators in Nevada only get out on the water a few times a year and do not fully understand the actions to take when hazardous conditions are present.
  • Boating while intoxicated: Most people out on a boat are there to relax and relieve stress, so it is common for boaters to have a few drinks and think nothing of the dangers. However, not only is it illegal, operating a boat while under the influence of alcohol is extremely dangerous.
  • Adverse weather conditions: There are many unsafe weather conditions that should prevent a boater from going out on the water. Driving a boat in windy and rainy conditions can put everyone on board at great risk.
  • Defective boat parts: Boat part manufacturers whose products are found to be defective can be held liable for the accidents and injuries their products cause.
  • Reckless and careless boater behavior: When a boat operator speeds or operates a boat recklessly, there is potential for a serious boating accident as well.

Rights of a Victim Injured in a Nevada Boating Accident

Victims injured in a boating accident in Nevada can seek compensation for medical expenses, loss of wages, hospital bills, rehabilitation, and other accident-related damages. In the event of a victim suffering a catastrophic injury, they can also seek compensation for cost of long-term treatment and care. If a boating accident is fatal, the family of a deceased victim can file a wrongful death claim against the at-fault party, seeking compensation for medical and funeral expenses, lost future income, and other related damages.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a boating accident in Nevada, contact an experienced Las Vegas personal injury attorney at Shook & Stone for a free initial consultation. Call us today at 1-702-385-2220 to find out how you can pursue your legal rights.