Chicago Boat Accident Lawyer

If you or a loved one has been involved in a boat accident in or near Chicago, it’s common to feel distress and confusion right now. These types of accidents can result in severe injuries and even fatalities, leaving victims and their families devastated. That’s why it’s critical to seek the help of an experienced Chicago boat accident lawyer who can guide you through the legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve.

At Dolman Law Group Accident Injury Lawyers, we are dedicated to advocating for the rights of boat accident victims and holding responsible parties accountable for their negligence. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us help you navigate the challenging path towards justice and healing.

Why Choose Dolman Law Group Accident Injury Lawyers

When choosing a Chicago boat accident lawyer, it’s important to consider the experience and skill of the law firm you hire. At Dolman Law Group, our personal injury attorneys have over 120 years of combined experience handling boat accident cases.

Our track record speaks for itself, with over 400 settlements that have exceeded pre-trial offers. We are proud to have been recognized as “Best Lawyers” for 2022 and to have earned the Avvo Clients Choice for Personal Injury. Our firm’s attorneys are also part of the National Trial Lawyers Top 100 Lawyers.

Our commitment to quality over quantity sets us apart from other firms. Many TV firms are settlement mills, which means they prioritize settling cases quickly rather than fighting for the maximum compensation their clients deserve.

At Dolman Law Group, we are litigation bulldogs who are not afraid to take a case to trial if it means achieving justice for our clients. We have the financial resources to level the playing field with insurance companies, ensuring you are not taken advantage of during the legal process.

We understand that the aftermath of a boat accident can be physically, emotionally, and financially challenging. That’s why we ensure you get the medical care you need, even if you can’t afford it now. Our firm’s mission stems from a story just like yours. We are committed to making a positive difference in the lives of our clients by providing compassionate support and aggressive representation.

What Are Boat Accident Injuries Worth?

Understanding the value of your boat accident injury claim is essential for seeking fair compensation. Each case is unique, as the worth of your claim will depend on various factors, including the severity of your injuries, the impact on your daily life, and the negligence of the responsible party.

Boat accident injuries can range from minor cuts and bruises to more severe injuries such as broken bones, spinal cord injuries (SCI), traumatic brain injuries (TBI), and even loss of limb. These injuries can have long-lasting effects and may require ongoing medical treatment, rehabilitation, and therapy.

Work with a Chicago boat accident lawyer from our firm who can accurately assess the value of your injuries and fight for maximum compensation on your behalf.

What Are the Common Types of Boat Accidents in Chicago?

Chicago is known for Lake Michigan and the Chicago River, making boating a popular recreational activity. However, accidents can happen with the high volume of boats on the water.

Here are some common types of boat accidents that can occur in Chicago:

• Collisions: Collisions between boats are one of the most common types of accidents, often resulting from negligence, such as speeding, distracted boating, or operating under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Capsizing: When a boat capsizes, it can lead to severe injuries and even fatalities. Capsizing can occur due to factors like rough waters, overloading the boat, or inexperienced operators.
• Grounding: Another common type of boat accident is grounding, which happens when a boat runs aground on submerged objects or shallow water. Grounding can cause significant damage to the boat and injuries to passengers.
• Falls Overboard: Accidents involving falls overboard can occur due to various factors, such as slippery surfaces, uneven decks, or operator error. These accidents can be particularly dangerous, especially if the person is not wearing a life jacket.
• Slips and Falls: Whether on the boat or while boarding and offboarding, the crew of a commercial vessel—like the ones that take tourists on the Chicago River or the cruises on Lake Michigan—must keep surfaces dry and safe to prevent dangerous falls. 
• Fire and Explosion: Boat fires and explosions can occur due to fuel leaks, electrical malfunctions, or improper handling of flammable materials. These accidents can result in severe burns and other life-threatening injuries.

Causes of Boat Accidents

Boat accidents can happen for various reasons, many of which involve negligence by boat operators or other parties involved.

Some common causes of boat accidents include:

• Operator Inattention or Inexperience: Inattentive or inexperienced boat operators may fail to pay attention to their surroundings, operate the boat unsafely, or make critical errors that can lead to accidents.
• Alcohol or Drug Use: Operating a boat under the influence of alcohol or drugs is illegal and significantly increases the risk of accidents. Impaired judgment and slower reaction times can make it difficult for operators to respond to potential dangers.
• Speeding: Like on the roads, speeding on the water can lead to accidents. Excessive speed reduces the operator’s control over the boat and increases the risk of collisions.
• Equipment Failure: Faulty boat equipment, such as steering systems, engines, or navigational lights, can contribute to accidents. Boat owners and operators are responsible for maintaining their vessels and ensuring all equipment works properly.
• Hazardous Weather Conditions: Severe weather conditions, such as storms, high winds, and rough waters, can make boating dangerous. Ignoring weather warnings or failing to adapt to changing conditions can lead to accidents.

Common Types of Boat Accident Injuries

Boat accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, some of which can be severe and life-altering.

Here are some common types of injuries that can occur in boat accidents:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): TBIs can occur when a person’s head hits a hard surface, such as a boat or the water. These injuries can long-term affect cognition, memory, and overall brain function.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: A boat accident can cause spinal cord injuries that result in partial or complete paralysis. These injuries often require extensive medical care and rehabilitation.
• Broken Bones: The impact of a boat accident can cause fractures and breaks in different parts of the body, including arms, legs, ribs, and the skull.
• Drowning and Near-Drowning: Accidents involving falls overboard can lead to drowning or near-drowning incidents. These events can cause severe physical and emotional trauma.
• Burns: Boat fires or explosions can cause burns ranging from minor to severe, requiring extensive medical treatment and long-term care.
• Soft Tissue Injuries: Boat accidents can also result in soft tissue injuries, such as sprains, strains, and deep bruises.

Where Do Boat Accidents Occur in Chicago?

In Chicago, boat accidents can happen on Lake Michigan and the Chicago River.

Lake Michigan is popular for recreational boating, fishing, and sailing. With its vast size and diverse water conditions, accidents can occur due to a pilot’s inability to account for high waves, strong currents, or other boats.

The Chicago River, which runs through the city’s heart, is also a popular boating destination. Many architecture and other tours take place here. However, other boats, bridges, operator error, equipment failure, or overcrowding during special events can contribute to accidents.

No matter where your boating accident occurred, a seasoned Chicago boat accident attorney from Dolman Law Group can help you.

Fighting the Insurance Company After Sustaining Boat Accident Injuries

After a boat accident, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and other damages. However, insurance companies make claims challenging, as they often try to minimize payouts or deny claims altogether. Hire a Chicago boat accident lawyer who can handle negotiations with the insurance company and fight for your rights.

Common Insurance Company Tactics

Insurance companies often employ various tactics to reduce the amount they have to pay for boat accident claims.

Some of the common tactics include:

• Quick Settlement Offers: Insurance adjusters may pressure you to accept a quick settlement offer, which is often much lower than what you are entitled to. It’s essential to consult with a lawyer before accepting any settlement.
• Delaying Tactics: Insurance companies may intentionally delay the claims process, hoping you will become frustrated and accept a lower settlement. A reputable Chicago boat accident lawyer can help expedite the process and ensure your claim is not unfairly delayed.
• Blaming the Victim: Insurance adjusters may try to shift the blame onto you, arguing that your own negligence contributed to the accident. A skilled attorney will gather evidence to prove liability and protect your rights.
• Underestimating Damages: Insurance companies may undervalue your injuries, medical expenses, and other damages. A knowledgeable lawyer will assess the full extent of your losses and fight for fair compensation.

Our firm’s well-versed Chicago boat accident attorney can level the playing field and protect your rights.

What Should You Do After Being Injured in a Boat Accident?

After a boat accident, taking the proper steps can protect your rights and strengthen your case.

Here are some important things to do:

• Continue with Necessary Follow-Up Medical Appointments: Follow your doctor’s instructions and attend all necessary follow-up appointments to ensure proper healing and documentation of your injuries. Prioritizing your health will also lend itself to a more robust legal claim as it shows your commitment to getting better and that your injuries are real.
• Preserve Evidence: If possible, collect any evidence related to the accident, such as photographs, witness statements, and reports. This evidence can be valuable in proving liability and establishing the extent of your damages.
• Obtain a Copy of Any Police or Incident Reports: If law enforcement was called to the accident scene, request a copy of the police or incident report. These reports can provide valuable information about the circumstances surrounding the accident.
• Keep Detailed Records: Document all medical treatments, expenses, and any other losses you suffered from the boat accident. Also, keep a record of your missed time at work and any PTO or other benefits you must lose or use due to the accident. This documentation will be necessary when seeking compensation.
• Be Aware of the Illinois Personal Injury Statute of Limitations: Illinois sets a time limit of two years for filing a personal injury claim in its statute of limitations. Consult one of our Chicago boat accident lawyers as soon as possible after your accident to ensure you do not miss the deadline. If you miss this deadline, you may not obtain any compensation for your injuries or damages.

Consult a Knowledgeable Chicago Boat Accident Attorney at Dolman Law Group

If you suffered an injury in a boat accident in Chicago, seek legal representation from a knowledgeable Chicago boat accident attorney.

At Dolman Law Group Accident Injury Lawyers, our dedicated team of attorneys has the knowledge, experience, and resources to fight for the compensation you deserve. We understand the complexities of boat accident cases and will guide you through the legal process with compassion and determination.

When you contact a Chicago boat accident attorney at Dolman Law, you can expect to receive personalized attention and guidance throughout the entire legal process. From investigating the accident scene to building a strong case on your behalf.

Don’t face the aftermath of a boat accident alone. Trust the experienced team at Dolman Law Group Accident Injury Lawyers to advocate for your rights and help obtain the compensation you deserve. Contact us today at (312) 500-2901 for a free consultation. We are ready to stand by your side and fight for justice and healing.