Experienced Portland Oregon Boat Accident Attorney
Portland Boat Accident Lawyer
Find out why we have some of the best Portland boat accident attorneys
Have You Been Involved in a Boat Accident in Portland, Oregon?
Goldberg & Loren are here to help. With years of experience and a track record of success, we are the go-to boat accident attorneys in the area.
If you want to ensure that your rights are protected and that you receive the compensation you deserve, then you need the expertise of Goldberg & Loren. We will fight for you every step of the way, ensuring that you are fairly represented and that your case is handled with care.
Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and take the first step toward justice and financial recovery. Don’t wait; the sooner you reach out, the sooner we can start building your case.
Overview of Boating Accidents
Boating accidents can be a devastating occurrence, causing numerous injuries and even fatalities.
If you or a loved one has been injured or suffered property damage in a boating accident in Portland, seek legal representation from an experienced boat accident lawyer at Goldberg & Loren.
We can help navigate the complexities of a boating accident claim, negotiate with insurance companies, and hold the responsible parties accountable. By hiring one of our skilled attorneys, you can increase your chances of obtaining compensation for your injuries and losses.
Types of Boat Accidents in Portland, Oregon
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Boat-to-Boat Collisions
One common type of boat accident in Portland is boat-to-boat collisions. These accidents can happen due to operator inattention, excessive speed, or operator inexperience, resulting in significant property damage and injuries to both boat occupants. -
Collison with Fixed Objects
Collisions with fixed objects, such as docks, piers, or buoys, are also prevalent in Portland's waterways. Operators who are distracted, impaired, or unfamiliar with the area may fail to navigate properly and end up crashing into these objects, causing serious damage to both the boat and its occupants. -
Capsizing or Sinking
Boats capsizing or sinking pose a significant danger to the boat occupants. Factors like rough waters, improper boat maintenance, or overloading can lead to these accidents, resulting in injuries, drowning, or even death.
Causes of Boating Accidents
Operator Inattention or Error
Operator inattention or error is a common factor in many boating accidents. It refers to situations where the person operating one vessel is not paying proper attention or makes a mistake that leads to a collision with another.
Alcohol use when boating has been responsible for many boat accidents over the years. Either alcohol or drug impairment can significantly impair judgment and reaction times. Negligence and failure to adhere to these responsibilities can result in devastating consequences.
Inexperience of the At-Fault Boater
Without proper training and knowledge, inexperienced boat operators may not be aware of the risks and dangers that come with navigating a vessel. This lack of experience can result in operator error, which often leads to boat accidents and recreational boating accidents.
Only 12% percent of deaths occurred on vessels where the operator had received a nationally-approved boating safety education certificate; 77% of deaths occurred on boats where the operator did not receive boating safety instruction. [1]
Boat crashes caused by operator inexperience can have serious consequences, resulting in severe injuries, property damage, and even loss of life. Victims of these accidents often face mounting medical expenses, emotional pain, and financial hardships.
Excessive Speeds and Negligent Actions
Operating a boat at high speeds greatly increases the risk of accidents. Excessively fast speeds can limit a boater’s ability to react to sudden changes in the environment, such as hazards, other boats, or unexpected obstacles.
High speeds make it more difficult to maintain control of the vessel, putting both the operator and others at risk of injury or property damage.
Negligent actions by boat operators also play a significant role in boating accidents. Some examples of operator negligence include a boat operator diverting their attention away from the task at hand, such as using a phone or talking with passengers.
Another negligent action is the failure to maintain a proper lookout, where a boat operator fails to observe and react to potential dangers on the water.
Boat operators must be aware of the potential dangers and consequences associated with these behaviors and make a conscious effort to operate their vessels responsibly.
Alcohol and Drug Use While Operating Vessels
In Portland, Oregon, operating a boat while intoxicated is a serious offense with severe consequences. The legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit for boat operators is 0.08%, similar to that of driving a car. If caught operating a vessel under the influence, boaters may face hefty fines, potential jail time, and the loss of their boating privileges. [2]
Some common signs of intoxication include slurred speech, impaired coordination, impaired judgment, and slowed reaction time. If you suspect that an intoxicated boater was responsible for your boating accident and related injuries, reach out to our legal team for expert representation.
Improperly Maintained Equipment and Lack of Safety Gear
Properly functioning equipment is essential for safe boating. This includes the boat’s engines, steering systems, and navigational lights.
Mechanical failures and navigational issues while out on the water cause accidents. Worn-out parts or faulty systems can also increase the risk of accidents, especially in critical situations.
Equally important is ensuring that the boat is equipped with the necessary safety gear. All individuals on board, regardless of swimming ability, should have access to a properly fitting life jacket. Other essential safety gear includes fire extinguishers, distress signals (such as flares or an emergency beacon), and flotation devices.
Types of Injuries from Boating Accidents
Boating accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, some of which can be life-threatening or have long-lasting consequences. The types of injuries sustained in boating accidents can vary depending on the circumstances, the speed and size of the boats involved, and the behavior of the individuals on board.
Head and Neck Injuries
Head and neck injuries are unfortunately common in boating accidents and can cause significant pain and long-term effects. These injuries often result from the sudden impact or jolting movements that occur during a boating accident.
Symptoms of head and neck injuries can include localized pain, tenderness, numbness, tingling, and even paralysis. It is important to note that these symptoms may not appear immediately but could develop over time.
The severity of these injuries can vary greatly depending on the specific circumstances of the accident scene. Some individuals may experience mild symptoms that improve over time with rest and conservative treatment. Others may suffer from more severe injuries that require specialized care.
Traumatic Brain Injuries
Brain injuries can also lead to cognitive impairments, affecting memory, concentration, and problem-solving abilities. These cognitive deficits can make it challenging for individuals to perform everyday tasks and may require them to rely on assistive devices or support from others.
Spinal Cord Injuries
When the spinal cord suffers trauma, it can result in paralysis and a range of other debilitating symptoms. Depending on the severity of the injury, individuals may experience partial or complete loss of movement and sensation in various parts of their body. This loss of function can greatly impact their independence and quality of life.
Broken Bones
Broken bones are a common injury in boating accidents, with victims often experiencing fractures in their arms, legs, ribs, and even their spine. These fractures can cause excruciating pain and limit the victim’s mobility. In some cases, surgery may be required to fix the broken bones, and extensive rehabilitation and physical therapy may be necessary for recovery.
Boating accident victims may experience chronic pain, loss of mobility, and disfigurement, which can greatly impact their quality of life. The medical treatment required for broken bones can be extensive, including surgeries, medications, and ongoing therapy.
Internal Organ Damage
The force of impact during a boating accident can cause organs such as the liver, spleen, or kidneys to tear or rupture. This can lead to severe internal bleeding, which can be life-threatening if not promptly treated. Internal bleeding can lead to hypovolemic shock and organ failure.
Infections can develop in injured organs, leading to abscesses or sepsis. The treatment options for these injuries may include surgical intervention to repair or remove damaged organs, blood transfusions, and the administration of antibiotics to prevent infection.
Symptoms and signs of internal organ damage may vary depending on the specific organ affected, but common indicators include severe abdominal pain, difficulty breathing, dizziness, fainting, and signs of shock, such as pale skin and a rapid pulse.
Compensation for Boat Accident Victims
Boat accident victims may be entitled to various forms of compensation to help alleviate some of these burdens.
One key aspect of compensation for boat accident victims is coverage for medical expenses. This can include the costs of hospital stays, surgeries, medication, rehabilitation, and ongoing medical treatments.
Receiving proper medical care is important for the recovery process, and compensation can help victims access the necessary treatments without worrying about the financial aspect.
Another form of compensation regards lost wages. Boat accident injuries can often result in the inability to work, leading to a loss of income. Compensation can help replace the wages that have been lost, providing some financial stability during the recovery period.
Victims may be eligible for compensation for pain and suffering. This encompasses physical pain, emotional anguish, and the impact on the victim’s overall quality of life. This type of compensation seeks to address the non-economic damages experienced.
Role of a Boating Accident Lawyer at Goldberg & Loren
At Goldberg & Loren Lawyers in Portland, Oregon, our boating accident lawyers play a role in assisting accident victims and securing fair financial compensation for their injuries. Our skilled personal injury attorneys handle all aspects of the legal process, ensuring that your rights are protected.
One of the primary responsibilities of our boating accident lawyers is to thoroughly investigate the boating accident. We gather evidence, interview witnesses, and examine any available boating accident reports to determine liability.
We evaluate medical records to understand the full extent of injuries and the necessary medical treatment required. This allows us to accurately calculate the amount of compensation needed to cover medical expenses, rehabilitation, and ongoing care.
Negotiating with all parties involved is another aspect of our boating accident lawyers’ role. We interact with insurance companies and other attorneys to reach a fair settlement for the injured party. This includes advocating for your rights and ensuring that you receive maximum compensation for injuries sustained.
Our primary goal at Goldberg & Loren is to secure fair compensation for you.
Have you recently been involved in a boat accident?
Goldberg & Loren, the leading boat accident attorneys in Portland, Oregon, are here to support you in your time of need. By choosing an experienced Portland personal injury attorneys at Goldberg & Loren, you can have peace of mind knowing that your rights are protected and that you have someone knowledgeable fighting in your corner.
With Goldberg & Loren by your side, you can rest assured that you are in capable hands.
Contact Goldberg & Loren today for a free consultation and take the first step towards getting the justice and compensation you deserve. Don’t let your boat accident define your future – let us help you navigate the legal process and get back on course.
Sources:
[1] American Boating Association: Boating Fatality Facts. (n.d.). https://americanboating.org/boating_fatality.asp
[2] Oregon State Marine Board : Statewide and Local Regulations : Boater Info : State of Oregon. (n.d.). Statewide and Local Regulations : Oregon State Marine Board. https://www.oregon.gov/osmb/boater-info/pages/statewide-and-local-regulations.aspx#:~:text=operating%20under%20the%20influence%20is%20a%20Class,for%20Driving%20Under%20the%20Influence%20of%20Intoxicants.
Goldberg & Loren Personal Injury Attorneys
6500 S Macadam Ave #300,
Portland, OR 97239
(971) 339-8080
Have you or loved one been involved in a boating accident that has left you with an injury? We may be able to help, call us now to see if you have a right to compensation for your injuries.
Have Questions About Your Case? Call Us Today:
We Represent Those Who Have Experienced Boating Accidents in the Following Cities and Communities Near Portland, Oregon.
- Beaverton, OR
- Hillsboro, OR
- Vancouver, WA
- Clackamas County, OR
- Clark County, WA
- Columbia County, OR
- Multnomah County, OR
- Skamania County, WA
- Washington County, OR
- Skamania County, WA
- Yamhill County, OR
