Can I File a Personal Injury Lawsuit If I’m Injured in a Colorado Boating Accident?

 Posted on June 08, 2021 in Personal Injury

Fort Collins and the surrounding areas have some gorgeous areas for those who enjoy boating. Whether you are looking to go fishing, water skiing, kayaking, or just enjoy a leisurely cruise, boats are welcome at  Horsetooth Reservoir, Boyd Lake State Park, Carter Lake, and Lonetree Reservoir. Unfortunately, boating activities also bring the risk of boating accidents. Last year, the state of Colorado reported 34 recreational water-related deaths. The state is already reporting four deaths so far this year, with two in Larimer County, with the warm weather season just beginning.  

Boating Accident Statistics

According to data collected by the U.S. Coast Guard, there are approximately 4,000 boating accidents that occur nationwide each year, resulting in more than 600 deaths and leaving thousands more injured. Around 80 percent of those fatalities are caused by drowning, and the Coast Guard reports that more than 85 percent of those victims do not have life jackets on at the time of the accident.

Just like car and other vehicle accidents, alcohol is a significant factor in fatal boating accidents, responsible for almost one-fourth of all incidents. Colorado law enforcement report that there have already been numerous arrests for BUI (boating under the influence) already this season. Other frequent causes of boating accidents include:

• Operator inattention

• Operator inexperience

• Improper lookout

• Excessive speed

• Force of wave/wake

Boating Accident Lawsuit

Colorado law allows victims who are injured a boating accident caused by the negligence and/or recklessness of another party to pursue damages against that party for the losses their injuries cause them to suffer. Depending on the circumstances of the accident, the victim may be entitled to financial compensation for the following:

• Past, present, and future medical expenses to treat their injuries. This includes emergency treatment, hospitalizations, surgeries, diagnostic testing, rehabilitation, medical devices, and medications.

• Loss of income and benefits if unable to work while recovering from injuries. If the victim is left with a permanent disability that limits their ability to work, they may be entitled to loss of future income, as well.

• Pain and suffering

• Emotional anguish

• Scarring

• Disfigurement

• Permanent disability

Contact a Fort Collins Boating Accident Attorney

Unlike car accidents where liability is often obvious, proving liability for a boating accident is often more complex and requires the skill and experience of a Larimer County personal injury attorney. If you or a loved one have been injured in a boating accident, call Hoggatt Law Office, P.C. today at 970-225-2190 to schedule a free and confidential consultation to find out how we can help get you the compensation you deserve.

Sources:

https://www.uscgboating.org/library/accident-statistics/Recreational-Boating-Statistics-2019.pdf

https://www.coloradoan.com/story/news/2021/05/21/colorado-water-deaths-rise-4-reasons-behind-surge/5162120001/