When most people imagine serious vehicle accidents, their minds turn to highways and city streets, not the waterways that crisscross the Midwest. But boating accidents are a fact of life in Chicago, where Lake Michigan and the region’s rivers draw thousands of boaters every year.
These accidents can result in catastrophic injuries, sky-high medical bills, and weeks or months of uncertainty. At Powell and Pisman Injury Lawyers, our Chicago boating accident attorneys have seen firsthand how one reckless moment on the water can alter lives forever.
If you’re facing the aftermath of a boating accident in Chicago, Illinois, you should not be left to shoulder the consequences of someone else’s carelessness. Call our law firm today at (312) 635-5400 to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation.
How Powell and Pisman Injury Lawyers Can Help After a Boating Accident in Chicago, IL
Chicago’s scenic waterways can turn treacherous in an instant. Our experienced personal injury lawyers have spent more than 35 years representing accident victims throughout the region, securing more than $250 million for clients, including over 75 verdicts and settlements exceeding $1 million.
We handle all aspects of your boating accident claim, including:
- Evaluating your case in a free consultation and explaining your legal options
- Thoroughly investigating the cause of your accident and identifying all responsible parties
- Collecting evidence such as witness statements, accident reports, and medical records
- Collaborating with accident reconstruction experts, when necessary, to strengthen your claim
- Negotiating with insurance companies that will try to minimize your payout
- Preparing your case for trial and representing you in court if the insurer refuses a fair settlement
Our Chicago personal injury lawyers fight for every dollar you deserve, so you can focus on your recovery instead of worrying about paperwork. Contact Powell and Pisman Injury Lawyers today for a free case review.
Common Causes of Boating Accidents in Chicago
Chicago’s lakes and rivers are as hazardous as any expressway. Boating accidents happen for a range of reasons, most often rooted in operator negligence. A moment of distraction, an ill-advised decision, or the simple failure to follow boating safety rules can lead to devastating outcomes.
Common causes of boating accidents in the Chicago area include:
- Inexperienced or unlicensed boat operators
- Lack of proper lookout or inattentive operation
- Speeding or reckless maneuvers on crowded waterways
- Operating under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Equipment failure or insufficient boat maintenance
The result can be everything from minor collisions to life-altering injuries like broken bones, spinal cord damage, traumatic brain injuries, or drowning.
Boating accident injuries often require expensive medical treatment and lengthy rehabilitation. In extreme cases, they may even lead to death.
Meanwhile, insurance companies will try to limit their financial exposure, offering lowball settlements or denying claims outright. This is why you need a determined legal team to advocate for your best interests and make sure the responsible parties are held accountable.
What Compensation Can You Recover After a Boating Accident in Chicago?
If you’ve been injured in a boating accident, you may be entitled to compensation for both economic and non-economic damages.
The exact value of your claim depends on the circumstances, but our attorneys will fight to recover compensation for:
- Medical expenses, including emergency care, surgeries, and rehabilitation
- Lost wages and diminished earning capacity if you’re unable to return to work
- Costs for physical therapy and ongoing care
- Damage to your property, such as your boat or personal belongings
You may also be eligible for non-economic damages, which address the human cost of your injuries. These include pain and suffering, emotional distress, disfigurement, and loss of enjoyment of life.
Our attorneys leave no stone unturned when calculating the value of your case. We work with medical and financial experts to ensure you’re seeking every dollar you need for a true recovery.
Contact a Chicago Boating Accident Attorney for a Free Consultation
Boating accident cases can be complicated, often involving multiple parties and complex insurance questions. With Powell and Pisman Injury Lawyers, you have a team that understands the stakes and knows how to build a strong case on your behalf.
If you or someone you love has been injured in a Chicago boating accident, don’t let the insurance company dictate your future. Contact us to schedule a free, no-obligation case evaluation with a Chicago boating accident attorney.