Rochester, MN Boating Accident Lawyers

What This Page Covers:

• Causes of Accidents: Common causes of boating accidents in Minnesota include operator inattention, speeding, alcohol use, inexperienced operators, and equipment failure.
• Types of Injuries: Boating accidents may cause severe injuries such as brain and spine damage, lacerations, broken bones, and drowning.
• Compensation: Victims may be eligible for compensation covering medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, property damage, loss of enjoyment of life, and wrongful death.
• Knutson + Casey: With over 30 years of experience, Knutson + Casey provides personalized legal support and thorough investigation to help you seek fair compensation.

There’s nothing quite like a day on the water in Minnesota. Whether you are out fishing, water skiing, or simply enjoying a boat ride with family and friends, boating offers a sense of freedom and connection with nature. But what happens when this enjoyable pastime turns into a nightmare? A sudden collision, a capsized boat, or an unexpected crash may turn a peaceful day into a traumatic event that leaves victims with physical injuries, emotional distress, and financial burdens.

After a boating accident, you need someone who understands what you are going through and knows how to navigate the legal complexities involved. At Knutson + Casey, we are here to help you through this difficult time. Our team has experience handling boating accident cases in Minnesota and will assist you in seeking the compensation you deserve.

Common Causes of Boating Accidents in Minnesota

Boating accidents happen for many reasons, often due to someone else’s negligence. Some of the most common causes include:

• Operator Inattention: Boating requires full attention. Distractions, even for a moment, may lead to serious accidents.
• Speeding: Just like on the road, speeding on the water is dangerous. High speeds reduce reaction time and increase the severity of accidents.
• Alcohol Use: Operating a boat under the influence of alcohol is illegal and significantly increases the risk of accidents.
• Inexperienced Operators: Inexperienced boaters may not be familiar with navigation rules or how to handle emergencies.
• Equipment Failure: Faulty or poorly maintained equipment may lead to accidents, especially in critical moments.

Boating accident injuries range from minor to severe. Some of the most common injuries cause damage to the brain and spine. Lacerations and broken bones are also common, as well as drownings or near-drownings. Even the strongest swimmers are at risk of drowning if they are knocked unconscious or trapped under a boat.

Types of Compensation You May Be Entitled to After a Boating Accident

If you or someone you care about was injured in a boating accident, you might be eligible for various types of compensation. Depending on the specifics of your case, you could recover monetary compensation for:

Medical Expenses

This includes expenses for emergency treatment, hospital stays, surgeries, and any initial care received. If your injuries require ongoing treatment, rehabilitation, or long-term care, you may also be entitled to compensation for these future expenses.

Lost Wages

Compensation for the wages lost due to your inability to work while recovering from your injuries. If your injuries affect your ability to work in the future or reduce your earning potential, you may be able to recover damages for this loss.

Pain and Suffering

Damages for the physical discomfort and distress caused by your injuries are often recoverable. Any mental anguish, anxiety, and emotional suffering you have endured because of the accident may also permit you to recover a monetary award for psychological pain.

Property Damage

Property damage consists of the costs for repairing or replacing your damaged boat and other personal items damaged or lost in the accident, such as equipment or personal belongings.

Loss of Enjoyment of Life

Loss of enjoyment of life is compensation for the reduction in your quality of life, such as your inability to participate in activities or hobbies you enjoyed before the accident. If your injuries affect your relationships with family members or loved ones, you may also be entitled to compensation for this loss.

Wrongful Death

There is also coverage for the costs associated with the death of a loved one, including the loss of financial support and services that the deceased would have provided. Wrongful death damages typically also recover for the emotional impact and loss of companionship suffered by family members.

How Knutson + Casey Can Help with Your Boating Accident Case

At Knutson + Casey, we have the knowledge and experience to help you navigate these tough times. Our dedicated team understands Minnesota’s boating laws and will work diligently to build a strong case on your behalf. We pride ourselves on thorough investigations, utilizing advanced technology, and gathering all necessary evidence to support your claim. We handle all negotiations with insurance companies to help you seek the compensation you deserve.

With over three decades of experience and a proven track record of success, Knutson + Casey stands out for our commitment to personalized service. Our firm combines the power and resources of a large firm with the compassionate care you expect from a hometown business. Contact us today at (507) 344-8888 or fill out our contact form to schedule a consultation.

LEGALLY REVIEWED BY

Knutson and Casey Expert Legal Team

September 19, 2024

At Knutson+Casey, we take the time to understand each distinctive matter presented to us by a client in need of assistance. We make certain that our clients understand their options and can make informed decisions regarding the progress of their cases. We have 4 bar certified attorneys as well as 5 expert paralegals on staff to review all legal information and cases presented.