Boat Accident FAQs

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If you’ve been involved in a boat accident, you probably have many questions. We encourage you to contact our firm for a free consultation, so we can help you explore your legal options.

Here are answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about boat accidents.

1. What to do after a boat accident?

If you are hurt in a boat accident, your first priority should be to seek medical attention. Sometimes, people don’t realize the severity of their injuries right away, so it’s important to see a doctor.

Next, you will need to file a boat accident claim. Proving fault in a boat accident can be difficult without the support of an experienced attorney. The Ohio boat accident attorneys from Nurenberg, Paris, Heller & McCarthy can help. We’ll take care of all of the legal details surrounding your case so that you can focus on moving forward with your life.

2. Who is at fault in a boat accident?

Boat accidents can be caused by numerous factors, such as:

alcohol use,
excessive speed,
equipment system failure,
hazardous waters,
operator inattention,
operator inexperience,
reckless operation,
and passenger/skier behavior.

Determining the cause of a boat accident is crucial in proving who is at-fault for your accident. Our Ohio boat injury lawyers at Nurenberg Paris have the accident reconstruction technology and resources needed to rebuild the details surrounding your accident and collect evidence that will support your claim.

3. How much does a boat accident lawyer cost?

At Nurenberg Paris, our boat accident lawyers work on a contingency fee basis—which means you owe us nothing unless we win or settle your case.

4. When does my boater education certification expire?

Once you have completed the required boater education course and are issued a certification card, it never expires. Keep in mind that you must have a copy of your boater certification at all times when operating a boat. If you have lost your card and need a replacement, you will need to write a letter to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources that includes your name, date of birth, and proof of course completion.

5. Is boater’s liability insurance mandatory in Ohio?

In Ohio, liability insurance—coverage protecting you if you cause an accident—isn’t mandatory for boating, but it’s a good idea to have in case you’re involved in a boat accident. Boater’s liability insurance can cover bodily injury damages, property damages for an accident you caused, or damages from a single-boat crash. To learn more about obtaining boater’s liability insurance, visit the Ohio Department of Motor Vehicles.

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