What Should I Look For In A Boat Accident Lawyer?
Every year, more than 5,000 boating accidents occur in the United States, causing $62.5 million in damage. Approximately 767 of these accidents result in deaths, while 3,191 cause injuries. If you have recently been injured in a boat accident, contact a lawyer.
Besides, a boat accident lawyer can help you fight for compensation. Otherwise, you would have to cover your losses out of pocket.
Don’t know which boat accident lawyer to hire? Read on to learn the factors you should consider when evaluating your options.
1. Credential
Investigate each lawyer’s credentials, including their
- Professional memberships
- Education
- Training
- Certification
Most states require lawyers to hold a Juris Doctorate from a recognized law school. Confirm if the lawyer is licensed to practice in your state.
Prioritize lawyers who are up to date on legal changes. They will be familiar with current personal injury legislation and procedures that may apply to your case. They should continue their legal education to keep their license active. Confirm if they are likewise board-certified in personal injury litigation.
2. Experience with Boat Accident Cases
There are currently 1.35 billion lawyers in the United States. Not all lawyers have experience handling boat accident lawsuits. To narrow your search, look for personal injury attorneys. Determine how long each lawyer has focused on personal injury law. Look for a lawyer who focuses on boat accident lawsuits. How many lawsuits like yours have they handled in the past year?
If there were only one or two, continue your search. Prioritize selecting a boat accident lawyer who has considerable relevant experience.
Consider the specific specifics of your case. For example, did the other boat owner handle the vessel safely? Approximately 74% of boating deaths occur because the operator did not obtain boating safety instructions.
Other common contributory factors are:
- Operator’s inattention
- Operator inexperience
- Improper lookout
- Excess speed
- Machinery failure
Alcohol usage is the leading recognized cause of fatal watercraft accidents. Look for a lawyer who has handled comparable cases to yours.
These lawyers will be up to speed on the legislation that may apply to your case. They will be aware of similar, recent boat accident litigation that they can cite. Choosing an attorney with recent and relevant experience might provide you peace of mind. You’ll be more confident in their capacity to support your claim.
3. Courtroom Experience
Inquire with each lawyer about the frequency with which their boat disaster lawsuits are litigated or settled out of court. Choose an attorney who has substantial courtroom experience. You cannot predict how your case will proceed. Finding an attorney at ease in a courtroom will cover all bases.
If the lawyer normally resolves matters outside of court, they may be concerned about presenting the case to a judge. These lawyers may accept a low-ball offer to avoid going to court. They will not have your best interests in mind.
4. Success Rate
Determine the number of boating accident cases the lawyer has won and lost in the previous year. Compare this to their overall record. Look for a boat accident lawyer who has a high success rate. These lawyers might improve your chances of a successful conclusion in your case.
Discuss the details of their most recent victories. What strategy did they implement? Inquire about the legal strategy they recommend for your situation. They should not follow a cookie-cutter approach. Instead, they should tailor their methods to your specific situation and goals.
5. Winning Estimate
The attorney should not estimate your winnings before analyzing the specifics of your case. They should consider:
- Your Board Accident Injuries
- Damage to your boat or property
- You lost your quality of life
- Your agony and suffering as a result
A competent attorney can provide you with an accurate appraisal of your case’s worth. However, they should not give any guarantees.
6. References
Request recommendations from three local attorneys. Look online for more client feedback.
Look for a lawyer that has a solid, positive reputation in their profession. These attorneys will work hard to protect their reputations. They will fight for your best interests every step of the way.
Check online for feedback about the lawyer’s attentiveness. Did clients struggle to contact them for updates on their lawsuits? If so, cross these lawyers off your list.
7. Requirement From The Client
Inquire with each lawyer about their required information to proceed with your case. They might request:
- Medical records
- Boat Repair Estimates/Bills
- Photos of the boating accident
- The opposite party’s contact information
Determine whether the lawyer has professional contacts that can help your case. For example, they could have a medical professional speak about your injuries. They could hire a private investigator to collect additional evidence.
Your lawyer should advise you not to speak with the other party’s insurance company. They will not have your best interests in mind. They may even use something you say against you to weaken your case.
8. Cost
Consider each lawyer’s pricing structure. Some lawyers charge a fixed or hourly rate. Most personal injury lawyers do not request payment until they have won your case.
They will request a part of your gains as payment. These lawyers are more motivated to fight and win your case.
In the end!
Don’t choose an inexperienced boat accident attorney. Instead, look for the mentioned factors while considering your options. Find an experienced, skilled lawyer who can help you win your case. Ultimately, a boat accident lawyer must be well-versed in the field’s nuances and laws.