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San Antonio Boat Accident Lawyer

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San Antonio Boat Accident Lawyer

Boating is a popular pastime in San Antonio, with our beautiful lakes and rivers offering a perfect escape for families and friends. However, boating also comes with risks. As a San Antonio boat accident lawyer, I understand that boat accidents can lead to severe injuries or even fatalities, often due to negligence or reckless behavior.

At Patterson Law Group, we are here to help you navigate the complexities of boat accident cases and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

Common Causes of Boat Accidents in San Antonio

As a top-rated boat accident lawyer in San Antonio, we see many different types of boating incidents, each with its unique causes. Common factors contributing to boat accidents include:

  1. Operator Inattention or Inexperience: According to the U.S. Coast Guard, operator inattention is one of the leading causes of boating accidents. A lack of experience can also increase the likelihood of errors on the water.
  2. Alcohol Use: Boating under the influence (BUI) is illegal and highly dangerous. The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) enforces strict penalties for BUIs, but alcohol still plays a significant role in boating accidents.
  3. Excessive Speed: Just as speeding can lead to car accidents, excessive speed on the water increases the risk of collisions. Navigating watercraft at high speeds in crowded or unfamiliar areas is particularly hazardous.
  4. Equipment Failure: Mechanical problems, such as engine failures or steering malfunctions, can lead to accidents, often due to improper maintenance or defective parts.
  5. Weather Conditions: Sudden weather changes can create dangerous conditions for boaters, especially if they are unprepared or unable to navigate effectively.

Texas Boating Laws: What You Need to Know

Texas has implemented several boating laws to protect all boaters’ safety. As your trusted San Antonio boat accident attorney, we ensure you understand these regulations and how they impact your case.

  • Boating Under the Influence (BUI): It is illegal to operate a boat while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit for boat operators in Texas is 0.08%, the same as for motor vehicles. Penalties for BUI include fines, jail time, and license suspension.
  • Life Jacket Requirements: Texas law mandates that all boats carry one U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket for each passenger. Children under 13 must wear a life jacket while the boat is underway.
  • Boater Education: Anyone born after September 1, 1993, must complete a boater education course before operating a personal watercraft or motorboat with over 15 horsepower.

Failing to follow these regulations can lead to severe consequences, including accidents, injuries, and legal liability. If you’ve been involved in a boat accident due to someone else’s negligence, our San Antonio boat wreck attorney team is ready to fight for your rights.

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What to Do After a Boat Accident in San Antonio

Knowing what steps to take can make a significant difference in your case in the aftermath of a boat accident. If you or a loved one has been involved in a boating incident, here’s what you should do:

  • Ensure Safety First: Prioritize the safety of everyone involved. If possible, move injured parties to safety and seek medical attention immediately.
  • Report the Accident: Texas law requires that boat accidents resulting in death, injury, or property damage over $2,000 be reported to the TPWD. Be sure to provide all necessary information to the authorities and obtain a copy of the report.
  • Document the Scene: Take photos of the accident scene, the boat’s condition, and any visible injuries. These records will serve as valuable evidence for your case.
  • Collect Contact Information: Exchange information with other parties involved in the accident, including names, addresses, and insurance details. Contact information must also be gathered from witnesses who may have seen the incident.
  • Seek Legal Advice: Consult with a boat accident lawyer in San Antonio as soon as possible. Our experienced team at Patterson Law Group can help you understand your legal options and guide you through the claims process.

Types of Compensation Available in Boat Accident Cases

If you’ve been injured in a boating accident, you may be entitled to compensation for various damages. As an experienced San Antonio boat accident attorney, we strive to secure the maximum compensation for our clients, which may include:

  • Medical Expenses: This includes immediate medical costs and long-term care needs such as surgeries, rehabilitation, and physical therapy.
  • Lost Wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, you may recover compensation for lost income and potential future earnings.
  • Pain and Suffering: We recognize the physical pain and emotional distress that come with a boating accident. Compensation for pain and suffering takes these factors into account.
  • Property Damage: If your boat or personal property was damaged in the accident, we can help recover repair or replacement costs.
  • Wrongful Death: In tragic cases where a loved one is lost in a boat accident, families may pursue a wrongful death claim to seek compensation for funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and more.

Why Choose Patterson Law Group as Your San Antonio Boat Wreck Attorney?

At Patterson Law Group, we have extensive experience handling boat accident cases and understand the unique challenges involved.

We take pride in our personalized approach, ensuring every client receives the attention they deserve. Here’s why you should choose us as your accident lawyer in San Antonio:

  • Proven Track Record: Our team has successfully represented clients in various boat accident cases, securing favorable outcomes and compensation.
  • Personalized Attention: We understand that every case is unique. We take the time to listen to your story, investigate thoroughly, and develop a legal strategy tailored to your needs.
  • No Upfront Fees: We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we win your case. Our goal is to make high-quality legal representation accessible to everyone.
  • Local Expertise: As San Antonio boat accident attorneys, we have an in-depth understanding of local boating laws and regulations, which allows us to build strong cases for our clients.

Boat Accident Statistics in Texas

San Antonio Boat Accident Lawyer

Understanding the prevalence and impact of boat accidents in Texas can highlight the importance of legal representation. According to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department:

  • In 2022, there were over 150 reportable boating accidents in Texas, resulting in 66 injuries and 39 fatalities.
  • Alcohol use was a leading factor in many of these accidents, contributing to over 30% of all boating-related deaths.
  • The most common type of boating accident involves collisions with other vessels, followed by grounding incidents and falls overboard.

These statistics show the severity and frequency of boating accidents in our state. If you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence on the water, our boat accident lawyer in San Antonio can help you seek justice and compensation.

Contact Us Today

Don’t navigate the aftermath of a boat accident alone. Patterson Law Group can assist if you need a top-rated boat accident lawyer in San Antonio. We offer a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your case and provide guidance on your legal options.

Call us today at 817.242.9020 or fill out our online contact form to speak with a boat accident lawyer near you. Let us help you get back on the path to recovery and secure the compensation you deserve.

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