Tacoma Boating Accident Lawyer
The Pacific Northwest offers countless opportunities for boating, from Puget Sound to American Lake and Lake Washington. But a peaceful day on the water can take a dangerous turn when negligence leads to an accident. If you or a loved one has been injured in a watercraft incident, a Tacoma boating accident lawyer at Lerner and Rowe can help you pursue justice and financial compensation.
Call our Tacoma personal injury attorneys at (206) 333-4400 to schedule a free consultation. During your free case review, a lawyer will review the details of your claim and determine if you have a valid personal injury claim.
What to Do after a Washington Boat Accident
After a boat accident, the first things you should do include checking for injuries, documenting the scene, and reporting the accident or calling 911. Washington law requires specific steps to be taken after a boat accident to ensure safety and legal compliance. The Recreational Boating Safety Program, boaters involved in an accident, must:
- Stop their vessel immediately
- Assist anyone who may be injured or in danger unless doing so endangers their vessel or passengers
- Provide identifying information to all other parties involved
You are also legally required to report the accident to law enforcement if it results in:
- The death or disappearance of a person
- Injury requiring medical treatment beyond basic first aid
- Property damage totaling $2,000 or more
- The total loss of a vessel
In the event of a fatality, missing person, or catastrophic injury, the report must be filed within 48 hours. All other qualifying incidents must be reported within 10 days.
Missing the deadline for your report violates state law and could prevent you from receiving compensation. A Tacoma boating accident lawyer, you can ensure compliance with legal requirements, safeguard your rights, and build your claim.
Common Causes of Boating Accidents in the Tacoma Area
Most boating accidents are preventable and stem from negligent or reckless behavior. Whether the incident occurs on a lake, river, or open water, some of the most common causes include:
- Alcohol or drug use
- Inattentive or distracted operation
- Lack of boating experience or proper licensing
- Speeding or aggressive maneuvers
- Failure to follow navigation rules
- Defective parts or mechanical failure
- Collisions with other boats, docks, or swimmers
- Hazardous water or weather conditions
- Electric shock drowning
A Tacoma boating accident attorney can investigate the accident, to establish fault and identify the responsible party or parties.
Compensation a Tacoma Boating Accident Lawyer Can Recover
If you were injured in a boating accident due to someone else’s negligence, you may be eligible for compensation to help cover:
- Medical bills
- Lost income and reduced earning potential
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of consortium for impact on relationships
- Punitive damages in cases of gross negligence
In the tragic event of a fatal boating accident, surviving family members may also pursue a wrongful death claim to recover funeral costs, loss of financial support, and emotional damages.
Why You Need a Tacoma Boating Accident Lawyer
Boating accident claims often involve state and federal maritime laws, as well as multiple parties. Depending on the circumstances of your boat accident, this can include private boat operators, tour companies, rental services, manufacturers, and even government entities. Navigating these legal challenges on your own can be overwhelming, especially when you’re recovering from a serious injury or dealing with the loss of a loved one. A Tacoma boating accident lawyer can help you:
- Investigate the accident and determine fault
- Collect critical evidence (accident reports, witness statements, medical records)
- Handle insurance negotiations to fight claim denials or lowball offers
- Meet all legal deadlines and requirements so you can focus on recovery
At Lerner and Rowe, we bring both legal knowledge and compassionate client care to every case. We aim not only to win your case but also to provide comprehensive support throughout the legal process.
Washington Boat Accident Injury Claim FAQs
Yes. While wearing a life jacket is always encouraged, not doing so does not automatically disqualify you from pursuing compensation. What matters most is whether another party’s negligence contributed to your injuries.
Washington State does not mandate boat owners to carry liability insurance for recreational vessels. However, certain circumstances may necessitate obtaining it. For instance, if you finance your boat or dock it at a marina, the lender or marina may require proof of insurance.
Absolutely. Passengers have the same right to file a claim if injured due to someone else’s negligence.
Under Washington law, you generally have three years from the date of the accident to file a claim. File as soon as possible to allow your Tacoma personal injury attorney the opportunity to gather timely evidence.
Contact a Tacoma Boating Accident Lawyer Near You
At Lerner and Rowe, we understand just how life-changing a boating accident can be. We’re committed to providing compassionate, aggressive legal representation backed by a proven track record of over $1 billion recovered for injury victims nationwide.
We have extensive experience handling all types of maritime injury claims, including jet ski accidents, private boat crashes, commercial vessel collisions, and more. No matter how complex your case, we’re here to fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.
Our legal team is available 24/7 to answer your questions, guide you through your options, and provide the support you need. And with our “No Fee Promise,” you don’t pay us a dime unless we win your case.
Call (206) 333-4400, use LiveChat, or fill out a case review form to get started on your claim and path towards justice.