BOAT ACCIDENTS
BOAT ACCIDENT INJURY LAWYER IN BARRIE
Boating is a popular pastime in the region of Barrie. Unfortunately, boating accidents can turn a pleasant day into a devastating outcome. If you’ve been impacted by an accident on the water, you need experienced legal representation on your side. Littlejohn Barristers is your trusted legal partner in Barrie, and we can help if you've been injured in a boat accident. Contact us today to set up a free consultation with a lawyer.
COMMON CAUSES OF BOATING ACCIDENTS
Boating accidents can result in severe injuries, property damage and even fatalities. Understanding the common causes of boating accidents is crucial for both prevention and determining liability. Some factors include:
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Operator negligence. Inexperienced or reckless boat operators who fail to follow safety guidelines can put everyone on board at risk.
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Impaired boating. Operating a boat while under the influence of alcohol or drugs is illegal and one of the leading causes of accidents.
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Speeding. Excessive speed on the water can lead to collisions, capsizing and other dangerous situations.
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Weather conditions. Sudden changes in weather, including storms and high winds, can make boating hazardous.
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Equipment failure. Malfunctions or defects in the boat's equipment, such as engines or navigation systems, can lead to accidents.
Common boat accident injuries include spinal cord injuries and lacerations from contact with boat propellers. Drowning is the number one cause of boating fatalities.
LEGAL REGULATIONS AND BOATING REQUIREMENTS AROUND BARRIE
Boating in Barrie is subject to specific legal regulations and requirements to ensure the safety of all waterway users. Understanding and complying with these regulations is essential. Our legal team at Littlejohn Barristers is well-versed in the local boating laws and can help you navigate the complexities of your case.
LIABILITY AND COMPENSATION IN BOATING ACCIDENTS
Getting compensation for boat accident injuries is more challenging than if you were in a motor vehicle accident. Here’s why:
Private boaters aren’t legally required to maintain insurance in Ontario.
Boat accident victims can’t access compensation through the Statutory Accident Benefits Schedule (SABS), as these benefits apply only to automobile accidents.
Seeking compensation under the Marine Liability Act can net a maximum of $1 million for all individual injuries, which can quickly dry out in cases of severe disabilities and multiple individuals.
To claim compensation beyond the maximum under the Marine Liability Act, you must prove the negligent party recognized the recklessness of their actions and intentionally chose to proceed, which is difficult to do.
If you’re a boat owner, we recommend you purchase an insurance policy that shields you against financial hardship in situations where you’re found responsible for an accident that results in injury to another person.
BOAT ACCIDENT LAWYER SERVICES IN BARRIE
If you’ve been injured in a boat accident, seek the help of a lawyer you can trust. The experienced professionals at Littlejohn Barristers in Barrie know the legal intricacies and challenges of seeking compensation. We’ll work tirelessly to serve your best interests. Contact us today to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation.
CONTACT A LAWYER IN BARRIE, ONTARIO & AREA
For your convenience, we’re located just minutes from the County Courthouse. Call Littlejohn Barristers today at 705-725-7355 to find out how we can help you in your fight for justice. Our office is in Barrie, but our lawyers are proud to serve Midland, Collingwood, Orillia and surrounding Ontario areas.