Toledo Boat Accident Lawyers

With its proximity to Lake Erie, Maumee Bay State Park, and the Maumee River, Toledo is a hub for recreational boating in Northwest Ohio. Whether you’re fishing near Ottawa River, tubing on Swan Creek, or cruising the open waters of Lake Erie, boating is a cherished part of life for many Toledo-area families.

But when negligence or unsafe behavior causes an accident, a relaxing day on the water can quickly turn into a medical emergency, or worse. According to the U.S. Coast Guard’s 2023 statistics, Ohio reported 92 recreational boating accidents, including 10 fatalities. Many of these occurred on or near Lake Erie and surrounding inland waters.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a boating accident near Toledo, turn to the experienced team at Nurenberg, Paris, Heller & McCarthy. We’ve been fighting for Ohio injury victims for more than 90 years, and we understand the unique legal and environmental factors involved in watercraft-related injury claims.

Common Causes of Boat Accidents Near Toledo

Boaters in Northwest Ohio face a variety of hazards. Some of the most common causes of local boating accidents include:

• Alcohol use or boating under the influence (BUI)
• Excessive speed
• Equipment failure or poor maintenance
• Hazardous conditions (e.g., sudden storms or low visibility)
• Inattentive or inexperienced operators
• Overcrowded watercraft or unsafe skier behavior
• Reckless operation

At Nurenberg, Paris, Heller & McCarthy, we investigate every detail to determine what went wrong and who was responsible. If someone else’s negligence led to your injuries, we’ll fight for the maximum compensation you deserve under Ohio law.

Common Injuries in Toledo Boating Accidents

Boating accidents can lead to catastrophic injuries. Some of the most common include:

• Drowning and Near-Drowning: Lake Erie’s choppy waters are especially dangerous. For instance, in July 2025, a woman and two young kids were rescued when they struggled to stay afloat after their sailboat overturned in Lake Erie.
• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): From falling overboard to vessel collisions, head trauma can cause long-term cognitive or physical damage.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: Severe crashes can lead to permanent paralysis or limited mobility, requiring extensive rehabilitation.
• Fractures and Orthopedic Injuries: Fractured arms, legs, ribs, or pelvis are common when struck by parts of the boat or thrown against hard surfaces.
• Propeller Injuries and Lacerations: Unprotected engine blades or sharp dock edges can result in deep cuts, amputations, or permanent disfigurement.

Who Is Liable in a Toledo Boating Accident?

Determining legal responsibility isn’t always straightforward. Our team investigates all angles to identify potential defendants, including:

• Boat Operators: Negligent operation—especially while intoxicated or distracted—is one of the top causes of crashes on the Maumee River and Lake Erie.
• Boat Owners: Owners can be held liable for improper maintenance, failure to provide safety gear, or entrusting their vessel to an unqualified user.
• Boat Manufacturers: If your injuries were caused by a mechanical defect, we can file a product liability claim against the manufacturer or part supplier.
• Marina Operators and Maintenance Crews: We investigate poorly maintained docks, unsafe slip conditions, or botched repairs at Toledo-area marinas and storage yards.
• Rental Companies: Boat rentals around Toledo are common—in fact, Toledo is the most popular location in Ohio for at least one boat rental app. But if you were injured on a rented pontoon, kayak, jet ski, or other vessel from a rental agency, they may be liable for negligence in safety training or boat maintenance.
• Other Vessel Operators: If another boat or watercraft (like a jet ski or wake boat) caused the crash, we’ll seek damages from their operator or insurer.

How Our Toledo Boat Accident Lawyers Can Help

Boating accident cases require experience, technical knowledge, and swift action. When you hire us, we can:

• Investigate the incident, including whether Ohio boating rules like age restrictions, boater safety education, and vehicle registration and licensing were followed 
• Gather Coast Guard and ODNR reports
• Interview witnesses and review GPS or marine navigation data
• Consult with boating accident reconstruction experts
• Handle all insurance company negotiations
• Work with medical and vocational experts to project your long-term costs and losses
• Prepare for trial if necessary

We also understand how important timing is. Surveillance footage disappears. Boats are repaired or destroyed. Memories fade. That’s why it’s essential to act quickly—and why we’re available now to listen to your story.

Compensation for Toledo Boating Accident Victims

We can help you fight for:

Economic Damages

• Emergency medical care, surgery, doctors visits, medications, medical equipment, physical therapy and rehabilitation
• Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
• Property damage to watercraft or gear
• Long-term care services or home modifications for permanent injuries

Non-Economic Damages

• Pain and suffering
• Emotional trauma and PTSD
• Loss of enjoyment of life or companionship

Punitive Damages

In rare cases of gross negligence—such as boating while intoxicated or willfully violating safety laws—Ohio courts may award punitive damages to punish the wrongdoer and deter future misconduct.

Why Choose Nurenberg, Paris, Heller & McCarthy in Toledo?

Our firm has helped Ohio injury victims since 1928, with a legacy of multimillion-dollar verdicts and settlements.

• Toledo-Focused Experience: We know the boating laws, courts, and marinas across Lucas County and along Lake Erie’s western basin.
• Expert Network: We work with Northwest Ohio marine experts, accident reconstructionists, and local medical professionals.
• Proven Results: Our past successes speak for themselves, including substantial recoveries in complex vehicle, boat, and product liability claims.
• Client Trust: We’re known for clear communication, compassion, and fierce advocacy.
• No Fee Guarantee: We only get paid if you get paid.

After a Boat Accident in Toledo, Contact Us

Don’t wait. The sooner you contact us, the better your chances of recovering evidence and protecting your rights.

Let Nurenberg, Paris, Heller & McCarthy stand by your side. Whether your incident happened on Lake Erie, the Maumee River, or any of Northwest Ohio’s waterways, we’re ready to help.