Boating Accident Lawyer in Gulfport, MS

There are different forms of boating accidents In Mississippi. Some may involve dockworkers, fishing crews, commuter boats, and cruise ships.

Other boat accidents can occur when people are out for fun activities like cruising, sailing, or fishing.

Boating accidents can cause damage, injuries, or worse still, death. If you sustain a boating accident injury through no fault of your own, you can file a claim to receive compensation for the damages. A Mississippi boating accident from Ben Bowden, Attorney at Law, can help.

Boating Accidents & Maritime law

Boating accidents fall under the maritime or admiralty law. The law governs accidents and injuries, legal contracts, and crimes on waterways. Some boating accidents that involve pleasure craft may not fall under the admiralty law, but rather personal injury law. Our attorneys have experience in maritime law, premise liability, and workplace injury and are ready to offer the help you need to achieve the best results.

Damages You Can Recover from a Boating Accident

Some of the most common boating accident injuries include:

  • Broken bones 
  • Lacerations and cuts
  • Drowning
  • Carbon monoxide poisoning
  • Sprains or brain injuries

A Mississippi boating accident attorney from Ben Bowden, Attorney at Law, can help you recover damages depending on the severity of your injuries. However, we must prove that the other party caused your injuries.

Some of the damages you can recover from a boating accident include:

  • Current and future medical expenses
  • Property damages
  • Lost wages and reduced ability to earn
  • Out of pocket expenses
  • Pain and suffering

Whether you suffered injuries while engaging in watersport activities or working on a boat, you are entitled to receive fair compensation for your losses. We can help you get rightful compensation whether your injuries occurred while at work or at play.

Timeline for Filing a Boating Accident Claim

You have three years to file a lawsuit after the accident. This time limit is known as the Statute of Limitations. While every situation is different, it is important to begin building your case as soon as possible.

Consult a Mississippi Boating Accident Attorney

If another person’s negligence caused your boating accident injuries or damages, you have the right to recover compensation. Do not let the at-fault party’s insurance undermine your rights by paying you less. Ben Bowden, Attorney at Law, is a law firm with years of experience handling the types of cases. Contact us to learn more about how we can represent your interests.

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Boating Accident FAQs

What should I do after a boating accident in Mississippi?

After a boating accident, get medical help as soon as possible, even if you are not sure how badly you were hurt. Report the accident when required, gather names and contact information from witnesses, take photos if you can, and keep copies of medical records, repair estimates, and any communication with insurance companies. You should also avoid giving a recorded statement before speaking with a lawyer.

Can I file a claim if I was hurt on a recreational boat?

Yes. If you were injured while riding on a recreational boat, fishing boat, jet ski, or other watercraft, you may have a claim if another person’s negligence caused the accident. This may include careless operation, speeding, boating under the influence, unsafe equipment, overcrowding, or failure to follow boating safety rules.

Who can be responsible for a boating accident?

Responsibility depends on what caused the accident. A boat operator, boat owner, rental company, equipment manufacturer, marina, employer, or another negligent party may be responsible. In some cases, more than one person or company may share fault. A boating accident lawyer can review what happened and determine who may be legally responsible for your injuries.

Are boating accidents handled under maritime law?

Some boating accident cases may fall under maritime or admiralty law, while others may be handled as personal injury claims. The answer depends on where the accident happened, what type of vessel was involved, and whether the injured person was working or enjoying recreational activities. Because these rules can affect your rights, it is important to speak with a lawyer who understands boating accident and maritime injury claims.

What compensation can I recover after a boating accident in Mississippi?

You may be able to recover compensation for medical bills, future medical care, lost wages, reduced earning ability, property damage, out-of-pocket costs, pain and suffering, and other losses. If the accident caused a death, surviving family members may also have a wrongful death claim.

What if I was injured while working on a boat?

If you were hurt while working on a boat, your claim may involve different laws than a standard personal injury case. Depending on your job, where you were working, and how the accident happened, your case may involve maritime law, workplace injury rules, or other legal protections. Ben Bowden, Attorney at Law can help you understand which laws apply to your situation.

How long do I have to file a boating accident claim in Mississippi?

In many Mississippi personal injury cases, you have three years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit. However, some boating and maritime claims may involve different deadlines depending on the facts of the case. It is best to speak with a lawyer as soon as possible so evidence can be preserved and important deadlines are not missed.

What if the insurance company offers me a settlement?

Be careful before accepting a settlement. Insurance companies may try to resolve a claim quickly for less than it is worth. Once you accept, you may not be able to ask for more money later, even if your injuries get worse or you need more treatment. A lawyer can review the offer and help you understand whether it accounts for your full losses.

Do I need a lawyer for a boating accident injury claim?

You are not required to hire a lawyer, but it can be more than just a good idea, especially if you were seriously injured, multiple parties were involved, maritime law may apply, or the insurance company is disputing your claim. A lawyer can investigate the accident, gather evidence, deal with insurance companies, and pursue the compensation you may be owed.

If you were hurt in a boating accident in Gulfport or anywhere in Mississippi, Ben Bowden, Attorney at Law can help you understand your rights and next steps. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation with Mr. Bowden.

Testimonials

Mr. Bowden has been a very good choice for us. He's taken care of things when we didn't have any idea where to turn. We highly recommend him.

Former Client | Personal Injury

Ben was awesome to work with. His assistant was able to address most of my questions during my case. Ben always found time to explain in layman’s terms how the court process worked. We won the case.

Former client

Mr. Bowden handled my workers' compensation case through trial and won big. He then filed a bad-faith case on the way my workers' compensation claim was wrongfully handled by the insurance company. I didn't even know I had that claim before he told me. I highly recommend Mr. Bowden. He took it to the other side at trial.

Former client | Workers Compensation

Ben has handled things for me for years. He has always done a great job. He comes to Lucedale to meet and that's been important to me.

Ben P.
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Gulfport Office
BridgeWater Commons
8927 Lorraine Rd, Suite 204-B
Gulfport, MS 39503
Lucedale Office
398 Ratliff Street
Lucedale, MS 39452
contact
Tel: 228.896.5652
Fax: 228.896.5689
bowden@benbowdenlaw.com
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