Saginaw Jet Ski Accident Lawyer - Lee Steinberg Law Firm

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Saginaw Jet Ski Accident Lawyer

Every summer, Saginaw Bay visitors and residents flock to area beaches to enjoy hours of jet skiing and wakeboarding. While the high speeds and open waters are irresistible to sports lovers and thrill seekers, it’s also an activity that comes with significant risks. A single mistake or act of negligence on the water can cause an accident that leaves victims with catastrophic and even fatal injuries.

If you or a loved one has been involved in a jet ski accident, call the Lee Steinberg Law Firm, P.C. We have been protecting the rights of injured people for decades and will use our vast experience and resources to fight for the compensation you deserve.

Why Hire Us For Your Jet Ski Accident Claim in Saginaw?

At the Lee Steinberg Law Firm, P.C., our Saginaw jet ski accident lawyers will relentlessly pursue the financial compensation you need after a serious accident. We have a long history of obtaining favorable settlements and verdicts for our clients and, while every case is different, our goal is always to achieve success. Here’s what sets our firm apart:

  • Decades of Experience: Our firm has been representing personal injury clients since 1973, so we bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to each case.
  • Client-Centered Approach: We believe in putting our clients first. This means providing personalized attention, listening to your concerns, and tailoring our legal strategies to meet your needs. Our compassionate lawyers are here to take your calls, answer your questions, and win justice for you.
  • Proven Track Record: Our firm has a proven track record of success in personal injury cases, including those involving jet ski accidents. Our personal injury attorneys secured substantial settlements and verdicts for our clients, and we’re prepared to fight for the compensation you deserve.
  • No Upfront Fees: We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you don’t pay anything unless we win your case. This ensures that you can access skilled legal representation without worrying about the cost.

Whether your claim is resolved through negotiation or goes to trial, we have the skills and resources to advocate for you. Call us today to learn more about what personal injury attorneys can do for you.

What Causes Jet Ski Accidents in Saginaw?

Water ski accidents often occur when least expected. They can involve collisions with other watercraft, striking stationary objects, or even flipping due to high speeds or rough waters. Common reasons include:

  • Inexperienced Operators: Many jet ski accidents occur because the operator lacks the necessary experience to handle the watercraft safely. Jet skis are powerful machines that require skill and knowledge to operate, especially in crowded or challenging water conditions. Inexperienced boat operators may struggle with controlling speed, navigating turns, or avoiding obstacles, leading to serious and even fatal accidents.
  • Reckless or Aggressive Behavior: Reckless or aggressive behavior is another common occurrence. This includes speeding, weaving through traffic, jumping wakes, and attempting stunts. Such behavior not only endangers the jet ski operator but also other people on the water. Reckless jet ski operation can quickly lead to collisions, capsizing, and other dangerous situations.
  • Alcohol and Drug Use: Drunk drivers aren’t confined to motor vehicles. Operating a jet ski under the influence of alcohol or drugs significantly increases the risk of an accident. Impaired judgment, slower reaction times, and reduced coordination make it difficult to operate a jet ski safely. Alcohol and drug use are contributing factors in many serious jet ski accidents, often with tragic consequences.
  • Mechanical Failure: Jet skis, like any other motorized vehicle, require regular maintenance to function properly. Mechanical failures, such as engine problems, steering malfunctions, or brake issues, can lead to accidents if they occur while the jet ski is in use. Regular inspections and maintenance are essential to ensure that the jet ski is in safe condition.
  • Weather Conditions: Adverse weather conditions, such as high winds, heavy rain, or rough waters, can make water skiing and wakeboarding dangerous. Poor visibility and choppy water can make it difficult to see and avoid obstacles, while strong winds can affect the stability and control of the jet ski. Operators should always check the weather forecast before heading out and avoid riding in dangerous conditions.
  • Lack of Awareness: A lack of awareness of surroundings is another common cause of accidents. Jet ski operators who are not paying attention to other watercraft, swimmers, or stationary objects are more likely to be involved in a collision. Staying alert and aware of your surroundings at all times is crucial for preventing accidents.

The aftermath can leave accident victims facing extensive medical treatment, lost wages, and a long road to recovery. That’s why it’s important to have a knowledgeable and compassionate attorney by your side to help you obtain the compensation you need to rebuild your life.

Why You Need a Saginaw Jet Ski Accident Lawyer

After a jet ski or wakeboarding accident, you might feel overwhelmed by the physical pain and suffering, emotional trauma, and financial difficulties that follow. The thought of pursuing a personal injury or wrongful death lawsuit may seem overwhelming, but it’s a necessary step in securing the money and medical care you need to recover. Here’s how a boat accident lawyer from the Lee Steinberg Law Firm can assist you:

  • Investigating the Accident: The first step in any personal injury case is to thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding the accident. This involves gathering evidence, such as eyewitness accounts, police reports, and any available video footage. Your lawyer will also work with accident reconstruction experts if needed to determine exactly how the accident occurred and who was at fault.
  • Identifying Liability: One of the most challenging aspects of a jet ski accident case is determining liability. Multiple parties could be responsible, including the jet ski operator, the manufacturer of the jet ski, or even the rental company if defective equipment was to blame. A product liability lawyer can examine all aspects of the case to identify the liable parties and hold them accountable for their actions.
  • Handling Insurance Claims: Insurance companies often attempt to minimize payouts or deny accident claims altogether, regardless of what their liability policies state. An experienced jet ski accident lawyer understands the tactics these companies use and will negotiate on your behalf to ensure you receive a fair settlement. 
  • Pursuing Compensation for Damages: The impact of a jet ski accident can extend far beyond physical injuries. You may also suffer financial losses from medical bills, lost wages, and property damage. The emotional toll of the accident can lead to pain and suffering, which is also compensable under the law. Your lawyer will work to calculate the full extent of your actual damages and pursue compensation that reflects the true cost of your injuries.
  • Representing You in Court: While many personal injury cases are settled out of court, some may proceed to trial if a fair settlement can’t be reached. The Lee Steinberg Law Firm has the courtroom experience necessary to present a strong case on your behalf.

Common Injuries in Jet Ski Accidents

Jet ski accidents can result in a wide range of severe injuries, some of which may have long-term or permanent effects. They include:

  • Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): A TBI can occur if a rider is thrown from a jet ski and strikes their head on the watercraft, another object, or even the water itself. Symptoms of a traumatic brain injury can range from mild concussions to severe cognitive impairments, and recovery can be both long and challenging.
  • Spinal Cord Injuries: Spinal cord injuries are among the most serious outcomes of jet ski accidents. These injuries can result in partial or complete paralysis that requires extensive medical treatment and long-term care.
  • Broken Bones: The impact of a collision or being thrown from a jet ski can lead to broken bones, which may require surgery, physical therapy, and time off work to heal properly. Even with treatment, some fractures can lead to chronic pain and limited mobility.
  • Lacerations and Soft Tissue Injuries: Sharp objects, such as rocks or debris in the water, can cause deep cuts and lacerations during a boating accident. Soft tissue injuries, including sprains and strains, are also common and can cause significant discomfort and mobility issues.
  • Drowning and Near-Drowning: Drowning is a tragic but all-too-common outcome of jet ski accidents. Even if a victim survives a near-drowning incident, they may suffer from hypoxia, which can lead to brain damage or other serious health issues.

Steps to Take After a Jet Ski Accident

If you’ve been involved in a jet ski accident, there are certain steps you should take to ensure your well-being and collect evidence for your future personal injury claim. Here’s what you should do:

  • Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Your health is the top priority after any accident. Even if you feel fine initially, some injuries may not be immediately apparent. It’s important to see a doctor as soon as possible to get a thorough examination and begin any necessary treatment.
  • Report the Accident: Notify the appropriate authorities, such as the local police or the Coast Guard, about the accident. They will document the incident, and a police report can be valuable evidence in your case.
  • Gather Information: If you’re able, collect information at the scene, including the names and contact details of eyewitnesses and any other parties involved. You should also get the registration numbers of the jet skis and take photos of the accident scene.
  • Avoid Speaking to Insurance Companies Without Legal Representation: Insurance companies may contact you soon after the accident, but it’s important not to give any statements or accept a settlement without first consulting a lawyer. Your attorney can handle all communications to ensure that you benefit from all applicable insurance coverage.
  • Contact a Jet Ski Accident Lawyer: Once you know you have compensable injuries, contact a jet ski accident lawyer as soon as possible. The sooner you have legal representation, the better your chances of securing a fair outcome. Your lawyer will handle all the necessary steps, from investigating the accident to negotiating with insurance companies or representing you in court.

What is the Ship Owners’ Limitation of Liability Act? Can It Affect Your Claim?

The Ship Owners’ Limitation of Liability Act, often referred to simply as the Limitation of Liability Act, is a federal statute that can impact claims arising from maritime accidents, including jet ski accidents. This law, enacted in 1851, was originally designed to encourage the growth of the American shipping industry by limiting the financial liability of shipowners in the event of a maritime accident. While it is intended to protect the interests of ship owners, the law can sometimes be invoked in cases involving personal watercraft, like jet skis.

Under the Limitation of Liability Act, a vessel owner can limit their liability to the value of the vessel and its freight at the time of the incident, provided they can demonstrate that the loss or damage occurred without their “privity or knowledge.” In other words, if the owner did not know about the negligence or unseaworthiness that led to the accident, they might be able to limit their liability.

For example, if a jet ski is involved in an accident, and the owner of the jet ski files for limitation of liability, they might attempt to limit their financial responsibility to the value of the jet ski itself. If the jet ski is worth $5,000, the owner could argue that their liability should be capped at that amount, regardless of the severity of the injuries or damages caused by the accident. This makes it even more important to have a skilled attorney who can negotiate on your behalf and push for a fair resolution.

Get a Free Consultation From a Saginaw Jet Ski Accident Lawyer

If you or a loved one has been injured in a jet ski accident in Saginaw, don’t wait to seek legal help. The Lee Steinberg Law Firm is ready to fight for the compensation you need to cover medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. To schedule an initial consultation with a personal injury lawyer, please call the Lee Steinberg Law Firm, P.C. at 866-649-1830 or contact our law office online today. We will explain your legal options and the best way to proceed.