Louisiana is an amazing place to call home. The great weather, the warm Gulf waters and thrilling outdoor activities. Unfortunately, with fun in the sun comes the risk for injuries – especially on the water. What happens if you get hurt in a boating accident? Here is everything you need to know about legal responsibility for boating accidents in Louisiana.

A “Sportsman's Paradise”

Louisiana is the “Sportsman's Paradise” and an ideal place to do some recreational boating. In fact, according to the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, there are well over 300,000 registered vessels in the state – more than one boat for every six households. With so many boats, however, comes a lot of boating injuries and accidents. In fact, the state faces roughly 25 deaths as a result of a boating accident every year.

Boating continues to remain a popular sport in Louisiana, but the large number of boats in use increases the likelihood of an accident occurring. Negligent and reckless boat operators can cause harm to fellow passengers, swimmers, and other boats.  According to the United States Coast Guard, the leading causes of boating accidents in the U.S. are:

• Operator inattention
• Operator inexperience
• Excessive speed
• Mechanical failure
• Alcohol use
• Weather conditions
• Violating navigation rules
• Hazardous waters
• Wake

Boating Accidents and Liability

Most boating accident sand injuries are caused by carelessness, poor boat operation training, or alcohol consumption. Alcohol can adversely impact several critical skills, including coordination, judgment, vision, and reaction time. In fact, alcohol use is a contributing factor in about 15 percent of all boat fatalities. Officials are always keeping an eye out for impaired boaters, which can result in charges that carry loss of privileges, steep fines, and jail time.

In the State of Louisiana, and throughout for nation for that matter, far too many people believe that the Gulf and the waterways of the state are there for their own personal enjoyment and entertainment – and simply disregard safety regulations. The results? Other boats, pontoons, personal watercraft, and even swimmers become accidents waiting to occur.

Contact an Experienced Attorney Today

Were you injured in a boating accident in New Orleans? If so, it's critical that you protect your rights immediately by speaking with an experienced personal injury attorney. The team at the Schwartz Law Firm has your best interest in mind when representing you in a boating accident injury case.

At Schwartz Law, our experience with the investigation and litigation of boating accident claims can give you an advantage in establishing liability against the responsible parties. Also, our attention to detail in the presentation of your lawsuit can help ensure that no component of your loss is ignored.  Regardless of the circumstances surrounding your injury claim, our experienced boating accident attorneys can help you get the compensation you deserve. Call the office at 504-837-2263 to schedule a consultation with one of our trusted attorneys.