Boating accidents can be disastrous and cause immense damage, injury, or even death. Boating accident claims are legal procedures that are used to compensate individuals and families who have suffered losses in a boating accident. If you’ve been involved in a boating accident as a victim, you may be entitled to compensation for your damages.

Missouri Law on Boating Accidents

Missouri boating laws require that all vessels involved in an accident resulting in death, disappearance, or injury to a person or persons must be reported to the Missouri State Highway Patrol (MSHP) within five days of the accident. Property damage arising from boating accidents must be reported within 10 days of the accident.

Who can file a boating accident claim in Missouri?

If you’re a passenger or boat operator in a boating accident, you may be eligible to file for a boating accident claim in Missouri. The claim can be filed against the negligent party, who may be another boat operator or the owner of the boat. If the boat operator is an employee, the employer may also be liable.

Steps to file a boating accident claim in Missouri

1. Collect information from the accident scene

To file a boating accident claim in Missouri, the first step is to collect information from the accident scene. This may include documentation of injuries, damage to the vessel, eyewitness accounts, and the name, address, and insurance information of the other boat operator if applicable.

2. Report the accident to the authorities

If the boating accident resulted in death, injury, or property damage, law enforcement must be notified within a specific timeframe. In Missouri, death or injury must be reported within five days, and property damage must be reported within 10 days of the accident.

3. Seek medical attention

If you or anyone else is injured during the boating accident, seek medical attention immediately. Documentation of medical treatment may be used as evidence in your boating accident claim.

4. Contact a boating accident attorney

Once you’ve gathered all relevant information about the accident, and all involved parties have been reported accordingly, it’s crucial that you seek legal counsel from a boating accident attorney. An experienced attorney will help you navigate the legal process and ensure that you receive the best compensation for your damages.

5. File the boating accident claim in Missouri

Your boating accident attorney will file the claim on your behalf. This may include filing court documents, submitting applications for legal fees, and providing evidence to support your claim. The party at fault will be notified, and negotiations will begin.

6. Attend the trial and obtain a settlement

If the case proceeds to trial, your attorney will represent you. You may be required to provide evidence in court to prove your claim. The settlement will be decided upon either through negotiations or trial.

Conclusion

Boating accidents can be costly, both in terms of damage to vessels and personal injury. To obtain compensation for the damages you’ve suffered, it’s important to follow the proper channels to file a boating accident claim in Missouri. Seek legal counsel from an experienced boating attorney to help guide you through the process and ensure that you receive the maximum compensation for your damages.