BOAT COLLISIONSWhen two boats collide, victims suffer injury, property damage or even loss of life

A boat collision can leave victims facing serious bodily injuries, expensive medical bills, property damage, and uncertainty about what to do next. If you are involved in a boating accident it is important to:

1. First seek medical attention as soon as possible. Documenting injuries and seeking medical treatment can help establish a record of the accident and its consequences, providing a stronger legal claim. Contact the Maryland Department of Natural Resources at 410-260-8888. In case of a boating fatality call the U.S. Coast Guard at 410-576-2525. Reporting a boat accident is mandatory under federal and Maryland law if a person dies, disappears or requires medical treatment beyond the administration of first aid. An accident report will be created by these authorities and will become an important piece of evidence.
2. Make sure to document the scene of the collision, including pictures of the damage to the boat(s) and where the collision occurred.
3. Ascertain the boat registration numbers for all vessels involved in the collision. As well as the contact information and insurance information of the operator(s) of the other boats, and any witnesses’ contact information.
4. As per the Md. Code Regs. 08.04.07.01 – Report of Boating Accidents, if the collision resulted in the death or disappearance of any one on board, or if anyone on board received medical care, you must report the accident to the Department of Natural Resources within 48 hours.

In cases of boating collisions, multiple parties may be at fault for your injuries. These parties may include but are not limited to the vessel operator, the owner of the vessel, the rental or charter company of the vessel, or even a manufacturer of defective boating equipment.

Maryland follows a strict contributory negligence rule, which can significantly affect your claims in a boating collision. However, if your boating collision occurs in the navigable waters of the Chesapeake Bay or its connecting rivers, General Maritime Law, which follows a comparative fault rule, may apply. That is why it is important to have an attorney who understands the complexities of Maritime Law to ensure you are awarded with the best outcome for your case.

Boat collision cases are complex, as they often involve General Maritime Law, admiralty jurisdiction, multiple insurance policies, and complicated liability issues. Victims of boat collisions may be entitled to compensation for: medical expenses; lost income and future earnings; pain and suffering; emotional distress; property damage to their vessel; rehabilitation and long-term medical care; wrongful death damages in fatal accidents.

Please call 301-888-HURT for Maryland Personal Injury Attorney George P. Patterson, with 30 years of experience in both state and federal court to schedule a free consultation. He is a Board Certified Civil Trial Attorney by the National Board of Trial Advocacy and a Top 5 Maryland Plaintiff Personal Injury lawyer by Super Lawyers.  Patterson Law’s office is located in Annapolis, Maryland by the Anne Arundel Medical Center.