Georgia Boating Accident Lawyer

Red Top Mountain Lake Allatoona

Lake Allatoona, Cartersville, Georgia 

Georgia’s warm climate, Atlantic coastline, and network of rivers and lakes offer enticing opportunities for people who love sailing and boating. But when a day on the water goes wrong, the results can be catastrophic. 

Boats generally do not come equipped with seat belts or other safety restraints, which can mean serious injuries in a crash. People who are ejected into deep water run the risk of drowning, even if they can swim. In addition, the party atmosphere around recreational boating means some people refuse to take safety seriously, exposing everyone around them to accidents caused by alcohol, inexperience, or bad decisions. 

That is why Georgia boating accident lawyer Charles Scholle and the team at Scholle Law are dedicated to helping victims of boating accidents. 

Like victims of car wrecks, boating accident victims can make an insurance claim to cover their injuries and medical bills — but just like auto insurance companies, boating insurance providers do not always want to pay what they legally owe.

Our attorneys have decades of experience taking on insurance companies to help our clients get the compensation they deserve. Call us at (866) 592-1296 or contact us online for a free, no-obligation consultation with a Georgia boating accident attorney today.

866-592-1296If you or a loved one has been injured call us today for a free consultation.

Common Types of Boating Accidents

There are dozens of types of water vessels, ranging from small personal watercrafts (such as Jet Skis) to houseboats to mega cruise ships. No matter the size and usage of the vessel, there is always a risk that something will go wrong. When it does, operators and passengers may suffer severe – and even fatal – injuries.

Whether you are puttering around one of Georgia’s many lakes or deep-sea fishing off of the barrier islands, these types of boating accidents are all too common:

 

Collisions between vessels, or between a vessel and a stationary object like a rock or marina, can cause serious damage. The boat may flip over (capsize), passengers may be thrown off the vessel, and the hull of the boat may be damaged. Collisions often happen when there are a lot of boats on the water, or when an inexperienced or inebriated operator is in control of the vessel.

Many boating trips include a period for passengers to take a swim around the vessel. In other cases, passengers may be thrown overboard by a rogue wave or a collision. No matter the reason, when people are in the water around boats, there is a risk of being run over by a vessel, leading to severe or fatal injuries. Moreover, when a boat starts or runs its engine around swimmers, the propeller can cause catastrophic lacerations, internal injuries, and even dismemberment.

Drowning accidents often happen when a passenger who did not plan to get into the water is thrown overboard. Depending on water conditions, that person may be unable to keep their head above water. This is especially true if they are not wearing a personal floatation device (i.e., a life jacket). In some cases, other people on the vessel may not realize someone fell overboard until it is too late to save them.

When the sun is out, many Georgians flock to bodies of water for water skiing, wakeboarding, tubing, and other fun, high-speed activities. With proper precautions, injuries are often avoidable. When a person falls onto the water at high speeds, especially from height, they could suffer from a traumatic brain injury. When the boat comes back around to pick them up, the person in the water could be run over or injured by the propeller.

Even for those who stay aboard the vessel while it is on the water, there is a risk of being injured. One of the most common onboard accidents is slips, trips, and falls. Boats bob and pitch in the water, and inexperienced passengers may lose their balance. In addition, the deck can become wet, presenting a risk of slipping. These risks are often exacerbated by alcohol consumption and general recklessness.

Commercial fishing and shipping workers are considered maritime workers under federal law, so they cannot collect workers’ compensation after an injury. Instead, injured workers and bereaved families must file a maritime accident lawsuit under the Jones Act to collect compensation.

 

No matter the cause of the accident, if you are injured by someone else’s actions or negligence, the Georgia boating accident lawyers at Scholle Law can help you get the compensation you deserve. 

 

Popular Boating Areas in Georgia

Aerial view water sports and boating in Lake Lanier

Lake Lanier, North Georgia

Though there are very few (if any) natural bodies of water than can be considered “lakes” in Georgia, there are numerous manmade lakes and reservoirs that welcome boats and other vessels. Some of the most popular lakes for boating in Georgia include:

  • Lake Lanier receives some 10 million visitors a year
  • Lake Sinclair is a Georgia Power reservoir with over 15,000 acres of water
  • Lake Allatoona is one of the most popular lakes in the country for recreation
  • Lake Hartwell is best known for its fishing, with some catches topping 60 pounds
  • Lake Oconee is home to one of the best golf courses in the state
  • West Point Lake offers boat ramps in 34 public recreation areas

Unfortunately, the popularity of these lakes means boating accidents and injuries are common. Locals and tourists alike enjoy summer weekends and holidays on the water, which is often accompanied by alcohol and a general lack of caution. 

Call us today for a free, no obligation consultation.866-592-1296

Speak to a Georgia Boating Accident Lawyer for Free Today

For over two decades, Charles Scholle and the team at Scholle Law have represented victims of all types of serious accidents, helping to secure the financial compensation they need to get medical care, support their families, and move on after a serious accident.

Our experience, skill, and reputation for excellence benefits our clients as we litigate the most serious boating accident claims, including cases of complex, lifelong injuries.

When you bring your case to Scholle Law, you will have personal attention and consistent communication as your case progresses. We handle the case from start to finish so you can  focus on recovery.               

Unlike what you may experience at a large “billboard” law firm, we give our clients the personal attention and compassion they deserve. Our attorneys have decades of experience taking on insurance companies to help our clients get the compensation they are owed.

Call us at (866) 592-1296 or contact us online for a free, no-obligation consultation with a Georgia boating accident attorney today.