Colorado is home to over 2,000 lakes and reservoirs that attract thousands of tourists and visitors every year for a variety of boating activities. Whether you are jet skiing or fishing, Colorado is a mecca for water sports and hobbies. Yet there are dangers to boating and the consumption of alcohol increases those risks. In 2011, there were 85 boating accidents throughout the State of Colorado, leading to 32 injuries and 10 deaths.
If you or someone you love is injured in a boating accident in Denver or anywhere in the State of Colorado, you may be able to file a claim against the negligent party. An experienced Denver boating accident lawyer can review your accident and help you choose the legal path that is best for you and your family.
Types of Boating Accidents in Denver
Boating accidents in Colorado can occur in a variety of ways, including:
- Sinking boats
- Flooding boats
- Not wearing life vests
- Capsizing
- Falling overboard
- Boat collisions with structures, such as peers or docks
- Boat collisions with other water vessels
- Boat fires
- Explosions
- And more
Reasons for Boating Accidents
The majority of boating accidents actually occur because of driver error. Boating operators who have not completed a boating safety course are particularly dangerous on the water and can jeopardize their lives and the lives of others. Negligent boat operators may take unnecessary risks, drive their boats too fast, or simply lack the experience to navigate their vessels in bad weather.
Drinking and boating do not mix, and when alcohol is involved, boating accidents increase. In fact, nearly 1/3 o all boating accidents occur when boaters or boat operators have been drinking. Drunken boat drivers may fail to recognize a dock or buoy before it is too late and fisherman who have been drinking may fall overboard and sustain serious injuries.
Denver Boating Accident Lawsuit Lawyers
If you or a loved one has suffered serious injuries as a result of a boating accident, it is important to discuss the situation with an experienced Denver personal injury attorney as soon as possible. Failure to do so may jeopardize your chances of obtaining compensation for injury.
In a free consultation, a Denver boating accident lawsuit attorney at Denver Trial Lawyers ® can inform you of your rights, educate you about the legal process, and discuss how we may be able to obtain compensation for you.
