Illinois Boating Accident Attorneys

Experienced Legal Representation for Victims of Drowning and Serious Injuries After a Boat Crash

Boating is a popular recreational activity in Illinois, with residents and visitors alike enjoying the state’s many lakes, rivers, and waterways. However, boating can also be dangerous, and accidents on the water can lead to serious injuries or even fatalities. Whether caused by operator negligence, improper boat maintenance, or hazardous water conditions, boating accidents often result in life-altering consequences for victims and their families.

At John J. Malm & Associates, we represent victims of boating accidents throughout Illinois, including those in Naperville and St. Charles. Our experienced Illinois personal injury attorneys are committed to helping those injured in boating accidents recover the compensation they need to cover medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. If you or a loved one has been injured in a boating accident, we are here to help.

Statistics on Illinois Boating Accidents

Boating accidents in Illinois have shown fluctuating trends over recent years, highlighting the ongoing need for safety measures and public awareness. In 2023, the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) reported 70 boating accidents, resulting in 12 fatalities and 37 injuries. This marked a significant increase from 2022, which saw 52 accidents, 6 fatalities, and 40 injuries. Notably, 8 of the 12 individuals who died in 2023 were not wearing life jackets, underscoring the critical importance of personal flotation devices.

The majority of these incidents occurred between noon and 6 p.m. on weekends during the summer months, particularly from June through August. Conditions were typically clear with good visibility, light winds, and calm waters. Most accidents involved operators aged 20 to 40 who had over 100 hours of boating experience but lacked formal boating safety instruction. Common factors contributing to these accidents included careless or reckless operation, often leading to collisions with other vessels.

Common Causes of Boating Accidents

Boating accidents can occur in a variety of ways, but many are the result of operator negligence or unsafe behavior. Some of the most common causes of boating accidents in Illinois include:

• Operator Inattention: Distracted or inattentive boat operators are one of the leading causes of boating accidents. Failing to pay attention to surrounding boats, water conditions, or other hazards can lead to collisions or other dangerous situations.
• Boating Under the Influence (BUI): Operating a boat while under the influence of alcohol or drugs is not only illegal but extremely dangerous. Alcohol impairs judgment, reaction times, and motor skills, increasing the likelihood of a serious boat accident.
• Excessive Speed: Just like on the road, speeding on the water is a significant cause of boating accidents. High speeds make it difficult for operators to react to sudden changes in conditions, such as other boats, swimmers, or unexpected obstacles.
• Improper or Lack of Boat Maintenance: Boat owners have a responsibility to ensure that their vessels are properly maintained. Mechanical failures caused by poor maintenance can lead to dangerous situations on the water.
• Inexperienced Operators: Boating requires knowledge and skill, particularly in crowded waterways or in adverse weather conditions. Inexperienced operators may not be familiar with navigational rules or how to properly handle a boat, increasing the risk of accidents.
• Dangerous Water Conditions: Weather conditions such as high winds, storms, and rough waters can make boating dangerous. Operators must take appropriate precautions or avoid boating in unsafe conditions.

Types of Boating Accidents

Boating accidents can take many forms, but the most common types of accidents include:

• Collisions with Other Boats: Collisions between boats are among the most common and dangerous types of accidents. These often result from operator inattention, failure to yield, or improper maneuvers.
• Collisions with Fixed Objects: Boats can collide with piers, docks, or submerged objects, leading to significant damage and injuries. These accidents often occur when operators fail to properly navigate or account for water conditions.
• Falls Overboard: Falling overboard can result in drowning or serious injuries, especially if the individual is not wearing a life jacket. Many falls overboard occur due to operator negligence, alcohol use, or rough waters.
• Boat Capsizing or Sinking: Capsizing or sinking is often the result of operator error, overloading the boat, or encountering rough water conditions. These accidents can lead to serious injuries or fatalities.
• Watercraft Defects: Boats and personal watercraft (PWC) with defective parts or design flaws can cause accidents. In these cases, the manufacturer may be held liable for injuries caused by the defect.

Common Injuries in Boating Accidents

Boating accidents often result in severe injuries due to the lack of protection and safety features typically available in vehicles on land. Some of the most common injuries in boating accidents include:

• Drowning: One of the most serious risks associated with boating accidents is drowning. Even strong swimmers can be at risk if they are knocked unconscious or trapped under a capsized boat.
• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): A blow to the head during a boating accident, either from falling overboard or striking part of the boat, can lead to traumatic brain injuries with long-term effects on cognitive and motor functions.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: A fall from a boat or collision can cause damage to the spinal cord, resulting in partial or complete paralysis.
• Broken Bones and Fractures: Boating accidents often involve high-speed impacts, leading to broken bones, particularly in the arms, legs, and ribs.
• Lacerations and Amputations: Propeller strikes are a significant hazard in boating accidents, causing severe lacerations or even amputations.

Your Legal Rights After a Boating Accident

If you or a loved one has been injured in a boating accident in Illinois, you may have the right to seek compensation for your injuries. Illinois law requires boat operators to exercise reasonable care while operating their vessels. When negligence or recklessness leads to an accident, injured victims can file a personal injury claim to recover damages for:

• Medical Expenses: This includes the cost of emergency treatment, hospital stays, surgeries, medications, and ongoing medical care such as physical therapy or rehabilitation.
• Lost Wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, you may be entitled to compensation for lost wages and any future loss of earning capacity.
• Pain and Suffering: Boating accidents often result in significant physical pain and emotional trauma. Compensation for pain and suffering takes into account both the physical and psychological impact of your injuries.
• Property Damage: You may also be able to recover compensation for damage to your boat or other personal property caused by the accident.

In cases where a defective boat or part caused the accident, you may be able to file a product liability claim against the manufacturer or distributor of the defective watercraft.

Why You Need an Experienced Illinois Boating Accident Attorney After an Accident

Boating accidents can be complex, especially when multiple parties are involved, such as the boat operator, passengers, and other watercraft operators. At John J. Malm & Associates, we have the experience and resources necessary to investigate boating accidents, gather evidence, and build a strong case for our clients. Our injury attorneys understand the unique laws and regulations governing boating accidents in Illinois, and we are dedicated to protecting the rights of injury victims.

“Boating accidents can lead to life-altering consequences for victims. Whether due to operator negligence, dangerous conditions, or defective equipment, it’s important to have experienced legal counsel by your side to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.” – John J. Malm, St. Charles boat accident lawyer

Contact the Award-Winning Illinois Boating Accident Lawyers at John J. Malm & Associates Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in a boating accident, don’t wait to seek legal representation. At John J. Malm & Associates, we are dedicated to helping victims of boating accidents recover the compensation they deserve. Contact our experienced boating accident attorneys today to schedule a free consultation. We serve clients in Naperville, St. Charles, and throughout Illinois.

Contact us at 630-527-4177 for our Naperville office or 630-524-2323 for our St. Charles office, or fill out our online form, to schedule your free consultation today.