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Tell Us About Your Charleston Boat Accident During a Free Consultation!

Boating is a popular activity in South Carolina, which has many water resources, including 460,000 acres of lakes. Any boating activity comes with a high potential for a serious or fatal accident. The S.C. Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) Law Enforcement Statistics stated that there were 201 recreational boating accidents in 2021 and 21 fatalities, which is the highest number reported in the past decade.

If you suffered injuries in a Charleston boat accident, Allen Law could represent you in your case to assist in pursuing fair and just compensation. Backed by more than 10 years of legal experience, you can feel confident in Attorney Allen’s ability to guide you through this process. Call our law office today at (843) 882-5005 for a free case review.

People move at the speed of trust, and we aim to ensure our clients fully trust us with their case.”
- Julian Allen

Common Types of Boat Accidents

Boats can be dangerous when people are careless or act negligently. Some of the most common types of boat accidents include:

  • Accidents caused by impaired boaters who are operating under the influence of alcohol or drugs
  • Jet ski and water-skiing accidents
  • Drowning accidents caused by an inadequate number of life jackets or floatation devices
  • Accidents caused by overcrowding
  • Speed-related accidents

These accidents often result in serious, sometimes catastrophic injuries, including spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, severe burns, broken bones, and traumatic amputations.

Boating Laws and Regulations in South Carolina

In South Carolina, any person who is 16 years of age or older can operate a boat. It is possible for someone younger than 16 years of age to operate a boat if they are accompanied by someone 18 years of age or older who has not been drinking or doing drugs. Although there are no open container laws on boats in the state, it is a crime to operate a boat while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

It is also important to be aware of your speed and to be aware of your surroundings. Even in cases where you may have the right of way, it is important that you know when to change your course to prevent an accident from occurring.

Determining Liability in a Boat Accident

Depending on whose negligent actions may have caused the boat accident that resulted in your injuries, several parties may be liable. The operator of the boat, the owner of the boat, a passenger on the boat, and even the manufacturer of the boat could potentially be held liable. For example, if the operator of the boat was engaging in reckless behavior, such as drinking alcohol, which ultimately led to an accident, that person may be liable for the injuries you sustained.

What Should I Do After a Charleston Boat Accident?

In the immediate aftermath of a boat accident, it is crucial to report it to the Coast Guard. They will be able to provide medical services and other emergency personnel. Reporting the accident to the Coast Guard is not only helpful for your personal injury claim, but it is also required. You should also obtain the names and contact information of anyone else who may have been involved in the accident, including those who witnessed it. Most importantly, never make any statements that sound like an admission of fault.

Schedule a Free Consultation with an Experienced Charleston Personal Injury Lawyer

If you were injured in a boat accident, a Charleston personal injury attorney can begin the work that is necessary to build a strong case and assist in the pursuit of justice and full compensation. At Allen Law, our attorney has more than a decade of experience, which we could use to your advantage. To schedule a free consultation, call us today at (843) 882-5005. We charge no legal fees unless we are successful.