The serene waters of Central Texas lakes can transform into dangerous scenes in seconds. A moment of inattention, a split-second decision, or mechanical failure can result in serious collisions, drownings, or catastrophic injuries that forever change lives.
When you’re dealing with the aftermath of a serious boating accident, a Round Rock personal injury lawyer from Dow Law Firm can prepare you for what’s next. Our Round Rock boat accident attorneys have dedicated their practice to helping victims navigate the aftermath of these incidents and fight for the compensation they deserve.
Reach out to us today by scheduling a free consultation and learn more about your options for justice.
Boating Laws in Round Rock
Like drivers of motor vehicles, boat operators are subject to important laws in Texas. These rules are in place to ensure safety on the state’s waterways and prevent serious injuries or deaths. For example:
- Operators born after September 1, 1993, must obtain a Texas Boater Education Certificate before operating vessels with motors exceeding 15 horsepower or wind-powered vessels over 14 feet on public waters.
- Every vessel must carry U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets for each person aboard, and children under 13 must wear these devices while on vessels under 26 feet. Larger vessels require additional throwable flotation devices.
- Boating under the influence (BUI) is illegal. First-time BUI convictions carry fines of up to $2,000 and potential jail time of up to 180 days. Third convictions can result in 2-10 years imprisonment and $10,000 fines. The legal limit mirrors driving standards at 0.08 blood alcohol content.
Who Is Liable for a Boat Accident in Texas?
If you are injured in a boat accident, you have the right to pursue legal action against those responsible. Depending on whether the at-fault party carries the right coverage, you can pursue an insurance claim against them. Alternatively, you can file a lawsuit against them in civil court.
Multiple parties may bear responsibility for your boating accident:
- Boat operators face liability for negligent actions, including speeding, reckless operation, intoxication, or failure to follow maritime laws.
- Boat owners can be held responsible when they allow inexperienced or unlicensed individuals to operate their vessels or fail to maintain proper safety equipment.
- Passengers may share liability if their actions interfere with safe boat operation or distract the operator.
- Rental companies have duties to maintain safe fleets and provide adequate instruction to customers. If they fail to do so, they can be held liable for any accidents.
- Manufacturers face product liability claims when defective boats or equipment cause accidents.
- Other boaters can be liable when their dangerous or illegal actions contribute to accidents.
If a boating accident results in a fatality, surviving family members may be eligible to file a claim with help from a Round Rock wrongful death attorney.
Should You Hire a Lawyer After a Round Rock Boat Accident?
Boating accident cases involve complex laws, insurance policies, and technical evidence that requires deep knowledge. The stakes are simply too high to navigate this process alone. Hiring a Round Rock boat accident lawyer from Dow Law Firm can strengthen your claim and protect you from tactics designed to minimize your claim. Our attorneys will reconstruct the accident, identify all liable parties, and calculate all of your damages so that you can secure the financial resources needed for your long-term recovery.
Contact a Boat Accident Attorney in Round Rock Today
Texas lakes should be places of recreation and relaxation, not scenes of preventable accidents caused by reckless operators. When someone’s negligence on the water results in your injuries, you are entitled to fair compensation.
Dow Law Firm knows what it takes to hold negligent boaters accountable and will fight for your rights every step of the way. Contact us at (512) 240-9951 to speak with our Round Rock boat accident lawyers today.