Learn about Your Legal Rights after a Water Skiing Accident
Boating and water sports are two recreational activities that are very popular in the state of Utah. These activities offer a chance to enjoy nature, let off some steam, and enjoy quality time with family and friends. However, as fun as boating and water sports may be, there are also risks involved. Many people fail to take boating responsibly, thereby increasing the chance of boating accidents, which can cause serious damage and injury. Those participating in water sports, such as water skiing, are especially vulnerable to injury, as they are provided little protection. When a water skiing accident occurs and damages are suffered, it is important to discuss the case with an experienced boating accident attorney. Those involved in a water skiing accident in Salt Lake City, UT can speak with the attorneys at Younker Hyde Macfarlane to learn more about their legal rights.
Common Causes of Water Skiing Accidents
Water skiing accidents are classified as boating accidents. When a water skiing accident occurs, it is often because of the negligent or reckless actions of one or more parties involved in the accident. Because of the casual nature of boating, there are, unfortunately, many who fail to take proper safety precautions when operating a boat. Additionally, it is not unusual for someone who is operating a boat or other watercraft to have little experience in the sport, in addition to little knowledge of maritime laws. All of these conditions increase the risk of boating and water sports for all of those on the water. Below are some of the most common causes of water skiing accidents:
- Reckless operation of a watercraft
- Operating a watercraft at excessive speeds
- Equipment failure (such as a broken tow line)
- Failure to be alert of other boats or swimmers on the water
- Failure to properly judge the speed and position of other swimmers and watercraft
Damages
While many fail to view boating and recreational water sports as risky activities, in the event that an accident does occur, the damages can be severe. Because of the dangerous equipment that is on a boat (propellers, anchors, etc.), as well as the fact that these accidents take place on water (making drowning a risk), water skiing accidents can cause very serious bodily harm, or even death. When it comes to determining exactly what types of damages have been incurred, and what type of compensation may be due, each situation is unique. However, in general, victims of a water skiing accident may be able to collect financial compensation for medical expenses, loss of wages, and pain and suffering.
Determining Liability
Water skiing accidents are complex, and it is difficult to prove liability. Because of this, it is important to work with experts in the field. When working to determine liability in a water skiing accident, our attorneys work with individuals experienced in maritime law, accident reconstruction, forensics, and physics. All of this allows our attorneys to create a strong and compelling case for our clients.
Schedule a Consultation
If you’ve been involved in a boating or water skiing accident, it is important to consult an experienced attorney to determine your best course of legal action. Our experienced team of lawyers at Younker Hyde Macfarlane have a great deal of experience working these types of cases, and would be happy to provide you with legal counsel. Schedule a consultation at your earliest convenience to learn more about your legal rights. We look forward to hearing from you.
