A Los Angeles sail boat accident is often the result of a negligent act and can leave a victim with many questions. They may ask, “Who will pay the medical bills…” “Do I have a personal injury lawsuit…” or “How do I prove negligence…”  In 2009, fatalities related to a boat accident were 5.8 percent for every 100,000 boats registered. The number one cause of a sailing ship accident is negligence on the part of the individual who is captain of the boat. If you or someone you love is a victim of a boating accident that was not your fault, consult with a Los Angeles boat accident lawyer after seeking medical attention for your injuries.

A motor boat makes up forty six percent of all water vessels involved in a boat accident. In eighty two percent of all accidents involving a boat, the driver did not receive formal or proper training of any type. Drowning is the cause of over three fourth of deaths in a boating accident, and eighty four percent of those victims were not wearing a coast guard approved life jacket.

Just as with cars and trucks, distracted driving accounts for many accidents that occur on the open waters. The individual that is the captain of a sail boat should be in control of the vessel at all times. This means that he or she must be very aware of their surroundings. If the captain loses his or her focus for even a short amount of time, accidents could occur. In many cases, alcohol is a factor in operator negligence and the slogan, “drinking while driving kills”, is just as applicable in a boat as it is in a car.

Operator negligence is not the only cause of a sail boat accident. Sometimes there is an issue with the boat itself due to a manufacturing defective or a defective part. In addition weather that was not anticipated can cause a sail boat crash. Every circumstance should be taken into consideration in order to determine the exact cause or causes of a sailing boat accident. It is wise to consult with a Los Angeles boat accident lawyer, with needed resources to investigate the incident to determine who is liable, such as the boat manufacturer or a negligent captain. You may have the right to file a personal injury lawsuit to pursue financial compensation for your injuries, losses and damages. If your loved one died as a result of a sail boat accident that was not their fault, your attorney may file a wrongful death lawsuit.

In many cases it is difficult to establish all liable parties on your own and it is wise to seek help from a personal injury law firm that has extensive experience in helping victims of a boat accident. Each accident is different in terms of damages and causes, and your Los Angeles boat accident attorney can assist you in proving your side of the story about what actually occurred.