Who Is Liable for a Boat Accident in Stockton, California?
Just as with accidents involving cars or trucks, legal liability for a boat accident often starts with the person operating the boat. Regardless of the type of craft involved, whether it is a personal sailboat or a commercial fishing boat, all operators need to follow certain federal and state safety regulations. Additionally, boaters have the same common-law responsibility as any motorist to operate their craft in a manner that does not place other people in danger. When an operator fails in this duty, they can–and should–be held financially responsible for any losses suffered by their victims.
In addition to boat operators, the following individuals or legal entities may also be responsible for a particular boat accident:
- the company that owns or operates the boat
- whoever employs the boat operator
- the manufacturer of the boat, if a defect in the watercraft or any of its parts contributed to the accident
- another boat passenger, if their reckless or negligent actions led to the victim’s injury
- the operator of another watercraft that recklessly collided with a boat, such as a jetski operator
- anyone responsible for the maintenance of the boat
Drowning is one of the most common consequences of a boat accident in California. Sadly, many drowning victims die as a result of their injuries. In these cases, the victim’s family members may have grounds to file a wrongful death lawsuit under California law against the parties responsible for the accident.
Contact Our Stockton Boat Accident Lawyers Today
Compensation for a boat accident in California can include past and future medical bills, the costs of long-term care and physical therapy, reimbursement for property damage, and even damages to cover the victim’s lost wages and diminished future earning capacity. Additionally, victims can seek non-economic damages as compensation for their ongoing pain and suffering and overall diminished quality of life.
The first step in seeking compensation, however, is to speak with a qualified Stockton boat accident lawyer. Call Venardi Zurada LLP today at (833) 893-6763 to schedule a free confidential consultation. We work on a contingency basis, so we do not collect any fees until we recover compensation for you.
