Phoenix Boat Accident Attorneys 

Arizona is a beautiful state with many lakes and rivers that are popular for boating. However, boat accidents can happen on any body of water, and it is important to be aware of the risks. 

If you were injured in a boating accident on one of Arizona’s bodies of water, it is important to contact a personal injury attorney as soon as possible. An attorney can help you file a claim and seek damages for your injuries.

We accept boating accidents cases throughout the state, including those that occur on:

• Lake Havasu
• Lake Powell
• Lake Mead
•  The Colorado River
• The Verde River
• The Salt River

For legal representation, contact us online or by dialing (602) 833-1110.

Common Causes of Boating Accidents 

Boating accidents can be caused by a variety of factors, including driver negligence, defective boat parts, and dangerous weather conditions. 

Some of the most common causes of boating accidents include:

• Reckless operation
• Excessive speed
• Defective components
• Failure to yield right of way
• Failure to maintain lookout
• Equipment failure
• Failure to judge position or speed

Negligence is a leading cause of boating accidents, and boat operators can be held liable for their actions if they are found to be negligent. 

Some common behaviors that can constitute negligence include:

• Operating a boat under the influence of drugs or alcohol
• Failing to follow safety regulations
• Distracted operation of the watercraft
• Failure to abide by boating laws
• Inexperienced operator 
• Overloaded or improperly loaded boats
• Failure to ensure regular and proper maintenance of the watercraft

Arizona’s Boating Regulations 

In Arizona, boat operators are required to follow a number of safety regulations in order to minimize the risk of boat accidents. 

These regulations include:

• Operating a boat while under the influence of drugs or alcohol is prohibited
• Boats must have a fire extinguisher and a visual distress signal device on board
• Children under the age of 13 are not allowed to operate a boat
• Boat operators must have a boating education card if they were born after January 1, 1986
• Boats must be operated at a safe speed and maintain a lookout for other boats and obstacles

These are just a few of the many safety regulations that boat operators must follow in Arizona. Failing to comply with these regulations can result in fines and criminal penalties.

Liability in Boating Accidents

In order to hold a boat operator liable for a boating accident, the victim must be able to prove that the boat operator was negligent. This can be done by showing that the boat operator violated a safety regulation or acted in a reckless manner. The victim must also be able to show that the boat operator's actions caused the accident and resulted in injuries. Finally, the victim must be able to show that they suffered damages as a result of the accident.

Recovering Damages After a Boating Accident 

When someone is injured in a boat accident, they may be able to seek damages from the responsible party. 

There are a variety of damages that may be available, including:

• Medical expenses - Medical expenses are one of the most common types of damages awarded in boat accident cases. Victims may be able to receive compensation for the costs of medical treatment, including hospital bills, doctor's bills, and prescription medication costs.
• Lost wages - Lost wages are another common type of damage award. If a victim is unable to work while they are recovering from their injuries, they may be able to receive compensation for the lost wages. This includes both past and future lost wages.
• Pain and suffering - Pain and suffering is a general category that includes all the physical and emotional pain and anguish a victim experiences as a result of their injuries. This type of damage can be difficult to quantify, so it is often awarded on a case-by-case basis.
• Emotional distress - Emotional distress is another type of damage that can be caused by a boat accident. Victims may experience symptoms such as anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, and nightmares. They may also suffer from a decrease in their quality of life. Emotional distress damages can help victims recover some of the costs associated with these conditions.
• Punitive damages – Punitive damages are awarded in rare cases when the defendant's actions were particularly egregious or reckless. This type of damage is designed to punish the defendant and discourage similar behavior in the future.

Statute of Limitations to File a Boating Accident Lawsuit in AZ

The statute of limitations to file a boating accident lawsuit in Arizona is typically two years from the date of the accident. It's important to note that the time limit can vary based on the specifics of the case, so seeking legal advice promptly after a boating accident is advisable to ensure compliance with the relevant statutes and deadlines. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What should I do immediately after a boating accident?

After a boating accident, prioritize safety. Ensure you and others are safe and seek medical attention if needed. Gather information from other parties involved, including names, contact information, and insurance details. Document the scene with photos and notes. Finally, contact a personal injury attorney to discuss your options for pursuing a claim.

2. How long do I have to file a boating accident claim in Arizona?

In Arizona, the statute of limitations for filing a boating accident lawsuit is typically two years from the date of the accident. It's crucial to consult with an attorney promptly to ensure compliance with this deadline and to gather necessary evidence.

3. What are common causes of boating accidents?

Common causes of boating accidents include:

• Reckless operation or excessive speed
• Boating under the influence of drugs or alcohol
• Equipment failure or defective components
• Inexperienced operators or overloaded boats
• Failure to maintain proper lookout for other vessels or obstacles

4. Can I seek damages if I was partially at fault in the boating accident?

Yes, Arizona follows a comparative negligence rule, meaning you can still recover damages even if you are partially at fault. However, your compensation may be reduced based on the percentage of your fault in the accident.

5. What types of damages can I claim after a boating accident?

Victims of boating accidents may seek various types of damages, including:

• Medical expenses for treatment and rehabilitation
• Lost wages for time off work due to injuries
• Pain and suffering for physical and emotional distress
• Emotional distress damages for anxiety, depression, or PTSD
• Punitive damages in cases of particularly reckless behavior

6. How can I prove negligence in a boating accident case?

To prove negligence, you must demonstrate that the boat operator breached a duty of care by violating safety regulations or acting recklessly, and that this breach caused your injuries. Evidence such as witness statements, police reports, and photographs from the scene can support your claim.

Injured in a Boating Accident in Phoenix? Call IBF Law Group Today. 

If you have been injured in a boat accident, the experienced Phoenix boat accident lawyers at IBF Law Group can help you seek the damages you deserve. We will work tirelessly to build a strong case on your behalf and we will fight for the compensation you need to recover from your injuries. 

Contact us today for a consultation: (602) 833-1110.