Kennett Square Boating Accident Lawyer

Boat anchored in open water

Boating accidents can result in serious injuries, from broken bones to drowning-related trauma. If you were injured in a boating accident caused by someone else’s negligence, Kingbird Legal is ready to fight for you. Our Kennett Square boating accident lawyer will help you secure compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Boating accidents can be caused by reckless operation, intoxicated boaters, equipment failures, or poor maintenance. Regardless of the cause, we will investigate the circumstances of your accident and hold the responsible party accountable. Watercraft injuries can have long-term effects, and you deserve financial support for your recovery. Don’t let an insurance company minimize your claim—get the aggressive legal representation you need. Call 484-289-4880 today for a free consultation, and let us fight to protect your rights and secure the compensation you deserve.

Injuries Commonly Seen in Boating Accidents and What to Do About Them

Boating is a popular recreational activity in Pennsylvania, with its rivers and lakes providing the perfect setting for relaxation, sports, and family outings. However, like any other outdoor activity, boating carries certain risks. Accidents can happen unexpectedly, and they can lead to serious injuries. Understanding the types of injuries that commonly occur in boating accidents is crucial for both boaters and passengers. If you’ve been injured in a boating accident, knowing the potential outcomes and the next steps can help you protect your health and your legal rights.

Types of Boating Accidents

Boating accidents can occur for various reasons, including operator negligence, poor weather conditions, or mechanical failures. In many cases, these accidents result in physical injuries. Some injuries are minor, while others can be life-threatening. It’s important to note that many boating accidents involve more than one person, and injuries can vary based on the severity of the incident.

Some common causes of boating accidents include:

  • Collisions with other boats or objects (e.g., docks, buoys, rocks)
  • Falls overboard
  • Capsizing or overturning
  • Defective equipment or machinery failure
  • Alcohol or drug use

Common Boating Accident Injuries

Whether you’re on a motorboat, jet ski, or sailboat, the risk of injury is real. Here are the most common injuries sustained in boating accidents:

  1. Head Injuries

Head injuries are among the most common and most serious injuries in boating accidents. These can occur when a person is thrown overboard or hit by an object or another person during a collision. The impact can result in concussions, skull fractures, or traumatic brain injuries (TBI).

In some cases, these injuries can cause long-term health issues such as cognitive difficulties, memory loss, or emotional instability. If a person falls overboard and strikes their head against the boat or an object in the water, it can cause significant trauma.

  1. Spinal Cord Injuries

Spinal cord injuries are among the most severe consequences of a boating accident. These can occur if the person is thrown from the boat, falls overboard, or is involved in a high-speed collision. Injuries to the spinal cord can result in partial or complete paralysis, depending on the severity and location of the injury.

Even in cases where the spinal injury doesn’t result in paralysis, it can cause chronic pain, loss of mobility, and other long-term health challenges. The financial and emotional toll of spinal injuries can be profound, which is why quick and proper medical attention is crucial.

  1. Broken Bones and Fractures

Fractures are also common in boating accidents, especially when passengers are thrown from the boat or collide with other objects. Broken bones can range from minor fractures to complex breaks that require surgery and extended rehabilitation.

Most commonly, broken arms, legs, ribs, and collarbones occur, but fractures in the face or back can also happen, leading to long-term consequences. The recovery time for broken bones can vary significantly based on the severity of the injury and the area affected.

  1. Drowning or Near-Drowning

Drowning is a leading cause of death in boating accidents, particularly if a person is knocked unconscious or unable to swim after being thrown overboard. Even if someone does not drown, being submerged in water can lead to near-drowning, which can cause serious respiratory issues, brain damage, and other complications.

Wearing life jackets and other safety gear can reduce the risk of drowning, but accidents can still occur. If you or someone you know has been involved in a boating accident and has had any difficulty breathing or was submerged in water, it is important to seek medical care immediately.

  1. Soft Tissue Injuries

Soft tissue injuries, such as sprains, strains, and tears, are common in boating accidents. These injuries can occur when a person is thrown from the boat or tries to brace themselves during a sudden stop or collision. The impact can cause muscle and ligament damage, often resulting in pain, swelling, and limited mobility.

While soft tissue injuries might not seem as severe as other types of injuries, they can cause long-term discomfort and might require physical therapy to recover. Depending on the severity of the injury, it could take weeks or even months to fully heal.

  1. Cuts and Lacerations

Cuts and lacerations are common in boating accidents, particularly in situations where a person is knocked against the boat’s sharp edges, propellers, or debris in the water. Depending on the severity, cuts and lacerations can lead to significant bleeding, infection, and scarring.

In some cases, especially with deeper cuts, there is a risk of injury to vital organs or blood vessels, which can require emergency medical intervention. Prompt treatment can prevent complications, such as infections or permanent scarring.

  1. Burns

Though less common, burns can occur in boating accidents. If a boat’s engine malfunctions or there is a fuel spill, an explosion or fire may result, leading to burn injuries. Boating accidents on larger vessels may involve dangerous situations with high-temperature machinery or electrical systems.

Burn injuries can range from mild, superficial burns to severe, life-threatening injuries. These types of injuries often require specialized treatment and, in some cases, long-term rehabilitation.

  1. Internal Injuries

Internal injuries, such as damage to organs or internal bleeding, can occur from a violent impact during a boating accident. The force of the collision or fall may cause blunt force trauma to organs like the spleen, liver, or kidneys. These injuries may not be immediately apparent, and symptoms can develop hours or days later.

If you experience abdominal pain, dizziness, or fainting after an accident, it’s important to seek medical attention to rule out any internal injuries. Left untreated, internal injuries can lead to severe complications, including organ failure.

What to Do in the Aftermath

If you are involved in a boating accident, it’s essential to take immediate action to ensure your safety and the safety of others:

  • Ensure Safety: First, check for any immediate dangers like fire or sinking. Make sure that everyone involved in the accident is safe and get medical help if needed.
  • Call for Help: Report the accident to local authorities or the U.S. Coast Guard. This helps ensure that emergency services arrive quickly and that the accident is documented.
  • Gather Information: Collect contact and insurance information from all parties involved. If possible, take photos of the scene, injuries, and any damage to the boat.
  • Seek Medical Care: Even if injuries seem minor, seek medical care immediately. Some injuries, especially internal injuries, may not be immediately noticeable.
  • Consult with an Attorney: If you are injured in a boating accident, it’s important to consult with an attorney who can help you understand your rights and options for compensation. An experienced personal injury lawyer can assist you in navigating the claims process, especially if negligence or unsafe conditions contributed to the accident.

Protecting Injured Boaters in Kennett Square

Boating accidents can lead to a wide variety of injuries, from broken bones to serious head trauma. Understanding these common injuries and the steps you should take afterward can make a difference in your recovery and your ability to seek fair compensation. If you were injured in a boating accident due to someone else’s negligence, Kingbird Legal is here to help. Our Kennett Square boating accident attorney will fight to ensure you receive fair compensation. Call 484-289-4880 today for a free consultation, and let us help you navigate your legal options.