What To Do After A Hit-and-Run Boating Accident In Maryland

Boating accidents are quite uncommon; however, they can be severe, especially if one of the parties in the accident were to flee the scene. A hit-and-run accident could lead to injuries or property damage, and it can challenge the legal process that should follow. Here is what you should do if you experience a hit-and-run boating accident in Maryland.

Stay Safe

Your safety should always be the first thing to prioritize in any boating accident. Ensure that everyone onboard is all right, and if someone is injured, you should call 911 immediately. If your vessel is still in use, pull over to the shallow waters or slowly dock your boat to a safe location.

Gather Information

If possible, try to gather as much information about the other boat as you can to increase the likelihood of identifying the culprit. Write down any details you can remember about the other vessel, like the boat’s type, size, color, and any distinguishing features. Note which direction the boat was headed and if there were any passengers on board. If you have a phone or camera, take photos and videos of the area and the other boat.

Contact The Authorities

It’s important to report the accident as soon as possible to the nearest law enforcement authority. Provide them with any information you have regarding the other boat to help in their investigation. The police will start a report and provide a case number that you will need when filing a claim with your insurance company.

Notify Your Insurance Company

Contact your insurance company and give them the basic information – when the accident occurred, the parties involved, and the location as they might require you to fill out a full claim report. And if you have collision coverage on your boat, your policy will cover repair costs or the full value of your boat if it’s considered a total loss.

Seek Medical Attention

If anyone on board is injured, it is vital to seek medical treatment as soon as possible. Remember that adrenaline in your system can mask injury symptoms, and some conditions might not be apparent immediately after the accident. Getting medical treatment helps develop an accurate paper trail that confirms your injuries and the extent of the damages.

Hire An Attorney

If your boat accident resulted in severe injury, property damages, or wrongful death, hiring a maritime attorney will help navigate your case complications. They will represent you in both the civil lawsuit and criminal proceedings, negotiate on your behalf, and fight to get you maximum compensation.

Conclusion

Experiencing a hit-and-run boating accident can be traumatic and frustrating. However, by following these steps, you can gather information and work with the authorities and your insurance company to get the resources and compensation you need. Remember to put safety first and contact emergency services immediately if injuries are involved.

Scroll to Top