If you were hurt in a boating accident, you’re not alone. Across the country, water vessel-related injuries and deathsappear to be on the rise in recent years.
While victims are often entitled to seek compensation, they’re not exactly guaranteed a payout. In order to recover funds for the damages they incur, they must first put together a strong claim.
Because every boating accident is unique, so is every associated claim. There are, however, a few steps that virtually all injured parties can take—and a few missteps they should avoid—to increase their chances of securing the compensation they deserve. Let’s take a look at what they are:
Do Preserve Any Evidence You Have from the Scene
If you managed to gather any potential evidence before leaving the wreckage, make copies to ensure redundancy, and then store each packet in its own secure location. Evidence worth preserving includes photographs of the scene, GPS data, video footage of the damage, the accident report, and statements from eyewitnesses.
If you were unable to gather any such proof, don’t worry; a resourceful boating accident attorney can conduct a thorough investigation that hopefully yields the evidence needed to prove liability.
Don’t Say Anything on the Record Prematurely
One or more insurance adjusters may reach out fairly soon after the accident—in a matter of days, most likely—and ask for a statement. Since there’s no way to be sure of the facts of the case until your legal team has completed their investigation—or of the extent of the damages until you’ve reached maximum medical improvement—it’s advisable to refrain from saying anything on record immediately following the incident.
Do Lay Low on Social Media
Posting about the accident or its aftermath is unwise. The insurance adjuster will be looking for cause to challenge your credibility, and you can be sure they’ll start on social media.
Since almost anything you post could be misconstrued and used against you, it’s best to disable your accounts until your claim has been resolved. Should that be impractical, at least activate the strictest privacy settings and scrutinize the content of every post before hitting “Publish.”
Don’t Accept the Insurer’s First Offer
As a general rule of thumb, the first offer extended during negotiations is rarely the best one. Even if it seems fair and you’re inclined to accept it, at least consult with a personal injury attorney before doing so. A knowledgeable professional can review the circumstances and let you know whether settling for the amount they’re offering means leaving money on the table.
Call (562) 206-1939 to Discuss Your Case with a Long Beach Boating Accident Attorney
Your Injuries Are Personal to Me
Were you seriously hurt in an accident on the water? For help holding the liable party accountable, turn to the Law Office of Michael D. Waks.
Our seasoned team is well-versed in collision claims, including those involving water vessels. Call (562) 206-1939 or complete our Contact Form to set up a free initial consultation with a boating accident lawyer in Long Beach.