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Boating Accidents
Lake Michigan and the nearby bodies of water make boating a favorite pastime and a way of life for many people in West Michigan. However, when boats are not operated safely, accidents can occur. The United States Coast Guard reports more than 100 recreational boating accidents in Michigan each year, with many resulting in injuries and fatalities.
At John D. Tallman, PLC, we help boating accident victims and their families pursue compensation through personal injury and wrongful death claims. We have been practicing in the Grand Rapids area for almost 40 years, and with our knowledge of Michigan's boating and negligence laws, we can build a strong case that gives you the best chance at a successful outcome.
In order to receive compensation through a personal injury lawsuit, you must be able to demonstrate that another party's negligence was responsible for the accident that caused your injuries. In the case of a boating accident, common examples of negligent behavior include:
When any of these factors are involved, the operator of the boat is likely at fault, but other parties may be liable as well. For example, the owner of a boat can be liable for accidents caused by a family member or anyone else operating the boat with the owner's consent. If the accident was caused by a manufacturing or design flaw, the manufacturer of the boat may be responsible. In accidents involving commercial boats, the company responsible for the commercial operation may share liability with the boat operator.
After a boating accident, you are required to report the incident to the nearest law enforcement officer as soon as possible, and you should also seek prompt medical assistance for anyone who has been injured. If you believe another party was at fault and you need to pursue compensation, your next step should be to hire an experienced personal injury lawyer.
Our attorney will help you identify and keep records of all damages for which you can be compensated, including medical bills, lost wages and income, household upkeep, and pain and suffering due to chronic injuries, disfigurement, loss of companionship, and loss of enjoyment of life. We will also help you collect and preserve evidence from the accident, including witness testimony, law enforcement records, photographs, and video footage.
We will use this evidence to build a case for the other party's negligence, and after filing a claim, we will represent you in settlement negotiations with the other party, or proceed to trial litigation if a settlement is not possible. You can rely on our legal experience both in and outside of the courtroom to put you in a good position to achieve a fair result. And, we only receive compensation if we collect on your case.
As a West Michigan native, Attorney John Tallman is invested in keeping Lake Michigan, Lake Macatawa, Muskegon Lake, and other local bodies of water safe and enjoyable for all boaters. We can help you get the relief you need to improve your quality of life after a boating accident. Contact us at 616-361-8850 for a free consultation. We represent accident victims and their families in the lakeside towns of Muskegon, Holland, and Grand Haven, as well as in Grand Rapids and throughout Kent County, Ottawa County, and Muskegon County.
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