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Los Angeles Charter Boat Accidents

Excursions off the coast of Los Angeles in a charter boat – whether for fishing, whale watching, sightseeing or other activities – should not end in a tragic maritime disaster. However, if you or a loved one has suffered a serious injury in a charter vessel accident, you may be entitled to financial compensation.

What Causes Charter Boat Accidents in Los Angeles?

A charter boat is a vessel that can be rented out for a fee to carry cargo or passengers, such as for offshore excursions or private cruises. They may be operated by private owners or charter companies in Los Angeles. 

Taking a boat out on the Pacific Ocean or in a marina in Los Angeles can end in an emergency if safety is not a priority for all involved. The operator should be familiar with California’s boating laws, for instance, while the owner of the boat should ensure proper vessel maintenance and upkeep.

Charter boat accidents can take place due to various examples of negligence, or the failure to act with appropriate care. Common examples are operator errors, speeding, boating under the influence, poor boat maintenance, equipment failures, hiring unqualified captains and carelessness by other boaters.

charter boat accidents in los angeles

Who Is Liable in Charter Boat Accident Cases? 

Determining who is liable, or responsible for paying for a charter boat accident in Los Angeles, requires an investigation into the cause of the incident. The person or party most at fault for causing the victim’s injuries can be held accountable. 

Possibilities include:

  • The charter boat operator or captain
  • A crew member
  • The owner of the boat
  • A charter company
  • Other boaters
  • A boat equipment manufacturer
  • A boat passenger

It is often possible to hold a charter company liable for accidents involving their boats and workers. However, you or your personal injury lawyer in Los Angeles will have to prove negligence to qualify for compensation.

Common Types of Charter Boat Injuries 

A charter boat accident such as a boating collision, capsized vessel, slip and fall onboard, drowning or near drowning, or onboard fire could lead to significant injuries for those involved. Typical injuries include broken bones, burns, soft-tissue injuries, spinal cord injuries and paralysis, traumatic brain injuries, internal injuries, lacerations, and fatal injuries.

How to Seek Financial Compensation for Your Los Angeles Charter Boat Accident 

Filing a claim for a charter boat accident that injured you or killed a loved one could provide you and your family with answers, justice, closure and the compensation you need to move forward. You may be eligible for compensation for your medical costs, pain and suffering, lost wages, and beyond.

After a charter boat accident, do your best to gather information and evidence. This can include an incident report, the names of those involved, photographs of the accident scene, your medical records and documents, and witness statements. When you’re ready to file an injury claim, contact Rose, Klein & Marias LLP for a maritime accident attorney in Los Angeles for advice and assistance.

An attorney can take over your claim to ensure that you are treated fairly by a charter company’s insurance provider. A law firm can send investigators to the scene, hire qualified experts, use state-of-the-art legal resources and take other steps to build your injury case. Then, your lawyer can handle settlement negotiations or represent you in court to achieve the best possible case results.

To schedule a free charter boat accident consultation with an attorney in Los Angeles, contact Rose, Klein & Marias LLP at (800) 362-7427.