Lake Of The Ozarks Boat Accident Lawyer
Boating in Lake of the Ozarks is a pastime many people enjoy. However, the joys that come with boating can be ruined in just moments by a boating accident. If you or a family member has been injured in a boating accident, talk to a boating accident attorney from our law firm.
Bergmanis Law Firm, L.L.C., handles all boating injury claims on a contingency basis. This means you pay no fees to our law firm unless we recover compensation for you. Our Missouri boating injury lawyers are prepared to aggressively fight for your rights as an injured person.
Were You Injured In A Boating Accident Or Other Type Of PWC Accident?
As Missouri boating injury attorneys, we have secured significant verdicts and settlements on behalf of our injured clients. We handle all types of boating accidents, including those that include personal watercraft (PWC).
Our lawyers have helped secure millions of dollars in recoveries for victims of negligent watercraft operators, along with recoveries from various watercraft manufacturers. We believe our injured clients deserve nothing less than the highest level of dedication, resources and experience.
Types Of Boat Accidents We Handle
We are capable of assisting you with just about any type of boat accident claim, including:
- Boat collisions
- Drunk boating accidents
- Boat speeding accidents
- Single-boat accidents
- Multiple-boat accidents
We handle boating accidents that result in serious injuries as well as fatalities. If a family member died in a boating accident, our law firm can provide the compassionate, skilled representation you deserve at this time. We can investigate the accident, determine the role of the negligent party or parties, and seek fair compensation for your economic and non-economic losses.
Frequently Asked Questions About Boating Accidents
Below are answers to some of the most common questions we receive about boating accidents on Lake of the Ozarks. Knowing these details can help you better understand what steps to take and how we can assist you in recovering fair compensation.
What should I do immediately after a boat crash?
We understand that the aftermath of a boat collision or other form of accident can feel overwhelming. If you can, try to follow these steps to make your claim stronger:
- Seek medical attention right away.
- Call 911 to have an accident report filed.
- Collect names, contact details and insurance information from the other driver and any witnesses.
- Take photos of both the boats and any visible injuries.
- Avoid speaking to insurance representatives without a lawyer present.
A lawyer can provide additional advice specific to your situation. If you complete the aforementioned steps, you can give yourself a much better chance of recovering compensation.
How long does it take to receive a boating accident settlement?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. Some settlements take place within months. Others can take a year or more. If the insurance company does not make a fair offer, negotiating a better settlement takes extensive time. A trial can take even longer.
How common are boat accidents on Lake of the Ozarks?
Lake of the Ozarks is considered one of the most dangerous lakes in Missouri and the U.S., topping various lists for boating accidents. The combination of heavy boat traffic, alcohol use and high speeds all contribute to frequent accidents. During peak seasons, the lake is packed with boaters, which increases the likelihood of collisions and other mishaps.
What is the speed limit on Lake of the Ozarks?
While there is no set speed limit across the entire lake, certain areas do have restrictions, especially near docks and shorelines. Boat operators must also adjust their speed based on conditions, such as high traffic, inclement weather or night boating, to avoid reckless driving citations.
Can Bergmanis Law Firm, L.L.C., represent tourists after a boat accident?
Yes, we frequently represent tourists and out-of-town visitors from Kansas City, St. Louis and other areas of Missouri, as well as out-of-state visitors. Lake of the Ozarks is a popular tourist destination, and having a local attorney experienced in boating accidents can significantly enhance your ability to recover compensation. We are well-versed in handling cases for tourists, helping ensure they receive the proper legal support and guidance throughout the process.
What are the most common boat accident injuries?
Boating accidents can cause a wide range of injuries, some of which may have long-lasting effects. Common injuries include:
- Head injuries from collisions or falling overboard
- Broken bones due to the force of impact
- Spinal cord injuries, particularly when victims are thrown from the boat
- Drowning or near-drowning incidents that result in brain damage
- Lacerations from boat propellers or sharp debris
- Whiplash and soft tissue injuries from sudden jolts or crashes
These injuries often require extensive medical care, rehabilitation and time away from work. A skilled boating accident lawyer can help you recover compensation for these and other damages, including medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Get Our Help Today
If you or a loved one was injured in a boat accident, do not wait to schedule your free initial consultation at Bergmanis Law Firm, L.L.C.. You can call us at 573-317-4156. You may also contact us online. We offer evening and weekend consultations by appointment.
Our attorneys represent people in personal injury, wrongful death, and workers’ compensation cases. We represent people charged with a crime ranging from serious felony cases to misdemeanor cases, and municipal traffic offenses. We provide aggressive representations for all of our clients with the goal of obtaining a positive result in each case.