Killeen Boat Accident Lawyer

Representing Victims of Boating Accidents in Texas

Boating is a popular pastime in Texas, especially in Killeen. From Stillhouse Hollow Lake to Belton Lake, there are plenty of places to enjoy recreational boating in the area. Unfortunately, too much fun can result in serious accidents, injuries, and even deaths.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a boating accident, you may be entitled to compensation. Our Killeen boat accident attorneys at the Law Offices of Vic Feazell, P.C. can help you understand your legal rights and options. We have extensive experience handling complex personal injury cases and can help you navigate the legal process from start to finish.

Call us at (254) 938-6885 or contact us online to request a free, confidential consultation.

Common Causes of Boat Accidents

A boating accident refers to any incident involving a watercraft that causes harm, damage, injury, or loss of life. These accidents can occur in any type of water body, including lakes, rivers, oceans, and even small ponds. They can involve various types of vessels, such as motorboats, sailboats, jet skis, or canoes.

Common causes of boating accidents include:

• Operator Error: Inexperienced or negligent operation of the boat, including speeding, improper lookout, or failure to follow navigation rules.
• Alcohol and Substance Use: Boating under the influence of alcohol or drugs can impair judgment, coordination, and reaction times, leading to accidents.
• Hazardous Waters and Weather Conditions: Operating a boat in rough weather conditions, strong currents, or areas with submerged objects can lead to collisions or capsizing.
• Mechanical Failure: Malfunctioning or poorly maintained boat equipment can result in accidents.
• Lack of Proper Safety Equipment: Not having life jackets, fire extinguishers, or other required safety gear onboard can lead to increased risk during emergencies.
• Reckless Behavior: Actions such as wake jumping, sharp turns at high speeds, or playing dangerously close to other boats can cause accidents.
• Inadequate Navigation or Planning: Failing to navigate properly, ignoring navigational markers, or not planning routes can lead to collisions or groundings.
• Overloading or Improper Loading: Carrying too much weight or unevenly distributing weight on the boat can affect its stability and lead to accidents.
• Inattention: Distraction by passengers, electronic devices, or other factors can divert the operator's attention and result in accidents.
• Lack of Training or Education: Insufficient knowledge about boating rules, safety procedures, or lack of required licensing can contribute to accidents.

Who is Liable for a Boat Accident?

Liability for a boat accident will depend on the specific circumstances of the case. In many cases, the boat operator is liable for any resulting injuries or damages. However, in some cases, other parties may be held liable.

Some of the parties that may be held liable for a boat accident include:

• Boat Operator: The person operating the boat is often the primary party held responsible for safe navigation and operation. If the operator was negligent, reckless, or violated boating laws, they can be held liable.
• Boat Owner: In some cases, the owner of the boat can be held liable, especially if they allowed an incompetent or unlicensed person to operate the vessel or if the boat had known mechanical issues that contributed to the accident.
• Manufacturers or Sellers: If the accident occurred due to a defect in the boat or any of its components, the manufacturer or seller might be held liable under product liability laws.
• Rental Companies: If the accident involves a rented boat, the rental company could be held liable if they failed to provide proper instructions, safety equipment, or if the boat was not properly maintained.
• Passengers or Participants: Depending on the circumstances, passengers who act recklessly or interfere with the safe operation of the boat might also bear some liability.

Proving liability in a boating accident typically involves investigating the circumstances, gathering evidence, and demonstrating negligence or wrongdoing on the part of the responsible party. Texas, like other states, has specific laws and regulations regarding boating safety and operation. Consulting with legal experts experienced in maritime law or personal injury law in Texas would provide more precise guidance regarding liability in a particular boating accident case.

Why Choose Us?

Hiring our Killeen boating accident lawyer can offer the following significant advantages if you've been involved in a boating accident:

• Legal Expertise: Our team specializes in boating accident cases, understanding the intricacies of maritime law and Texas state laws related to these incidents. We can navigate through complex legal processes, ensuring your rights are protected.
• Investigation and Evidence Collection: We'll conduct a thorough investigation into the accident, gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and reconstructing the incident to build a strong case in your favor.
• Determining Liability: Identifying who is responsible for the accident can be challenging. We have the experience to assess the situation, determine liability, and hold the appropriate parties accountable, whether it's the boat operator, owner, manufacturer, or other entities.
• Navigating Insurance Companies: Dealing with insurance companies can be overwhelming. Our team is skilled in negotiating with insurers to ensure you receive fair compensation for damages, medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
• Maximizing Compensation: We'll work tirelessly to pursue the maximum compensation you deserve. This includes damages for both economic losses (such as medical expenses) and non-economic losses (like pain and suffering).
• Court Representation: If the case goes to court, our experienced attorneys will represent you vigorously, presenting a compelling case and advocating for your rights in front of a judge and jury.
• Peace of Mind: Dealing with a boating accident can be emotionally taxing. Hiring us allows you to focus on recovery while we handle the legal complexities and fight for your best interests.

Ultimately, our dedicated team of legal professionals can work tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome for you. Contact us today at (254) 938-6885 for a free consultation.