Common Boating Injuries to Sue for in Louisiana

The injuries that victims sustain in non-fatal boating accidents can often be life-threatening and catastrophic. However, suffering a critical injury does not necessarily determine whether you have the right to hold the liable party accountable.

If your injuries have significantly impacted your life, and someone else is responsible for causing your accident, you have the right to hold them accountable. Injuries you can suffer in a Lake Charles boating accident lawsuit include:

  • Broken bones
  • Organ failure
  • Compound fractures
  • Lacerations leading to sepsis
  • Contusions and abrasions
  • Emotional injuries
  • Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
  • Loss of limbs
  • Facial injuries
  • Anxiety and depression
  • Internal bleeding
  • Traumatic brain injuries
  • Spinal cord injuries
  • Concussions
  • Paralysis
  • Whiplash
  • Soft tissue injuries
  • Third-degree burns

The best way to find out whether you have grounds for a case is by contacting a boat accident attorney in Lake Charles, LA, for legal guidance and learn about legal actions you can take.

How Common Are Boating Crashes in Lake Charles, LA?

Louisiana has a strong history of commercial and recreational boating, and recreational boating continues to be a popular pastime. Data from the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) show that as of 2022, more than 300,582 recreational boats were registered in the state.

Unfortunately, sometimes a boat outing can turn into a tragedy. And boat accidents are far more common than you might think.

The USCG reported 4,040 recreational boating accidents in Louisiana in 2022. Out of these accidents, there were 636 deaths.

branded accent

Negligence and Liability in Boating Incidents

When another person’s careless or reckless behavior is responsible for causing a boating accident, you could file a personal injury lawsuit. These lawsuits are usually based on the legal theory of negligence.

Negligence is when a person owes a duty of care to another and breaches that duty in a way that causes harm. An offshore accident lawyer can help you determine whether or not your injuries were caused by another party’s negligence.

Some examples of negligence on the water could include:

  • Colliding with another vessel
  • Colliding with a fixed object or grounding
  • An operator driving the vessel at an excessive speed
  • Operating while intoxicated

Your lawyer can collect evidence of the responsible party’s liability, such as accident reports, eyewitness testimony, and personal statements.

This evidence may include the results of post-accident drug testing required after certain boating accidents. Louisiana Revised Statutes (RS) §32:681 states that if a boating accident results in a fatality or suspected serious injury, the operator of the boat may be administered chemical tests of their blood, urine, or other bodily fluids to determine the presence of any abused substances or controlled dangerous substance. Boat owners or operators may also be responsible for injuries if they fail to have the necessary safety equipment onboard or follow other state and federal safety rules.

Talk to a Louisiana Local Attorney Today

Get a Free Case Evaluation

boat crash

Boating Crashes at Work

Many people in Louisiana have a job that requires them to be on a boat or the water. When a person is hurt at work while on land, they generally do not file a personal injury lawsuit against their employer. Instead, they use the workers’ compensation system to recover money for their damages. On the water, the rules are different. Most seamen injured while performing their jobs cannot file a workers’ compensation claim against their employers under either Louisiana or federal law. Instead, they usually must sue their employer under maritime law and the federal Jones Act.

Jones Act claims also operate under the theory of negligence. To file a Jones Act case, the worker must prove that their employer did not provide a reasonably safe work environment, failed to use ordinary care to maintain the vessel, or operated the ship in an unsafe condition. Injured seamen and their Lake Charles, LA, maritime injury lawyers can file a lawsuit against their employer in either state or federal court. Still, they must do so within three years of their accident or injury.

Statute of Limitations for Boating Collisions in Louisiana

If you are considering insurance or civil claims against the liable party following your Lake Charles boating accident, it is important to file your claim before the Louisiana statute of limitations expires. Per CC 3493.1, injury victims generally only have two years to file their claim. Your deadline could be different depending on your case. Some factors that could impact the date the statute of limitations runs out include when you were diagnosed with your injuries and when the accident occurred.

If you attempt to file your lawsuit once the statute of limitations has passed, the defense will file a motion to dismiss your case. Unfortunately, the judge will likely have no option but to grant their request. Fortunately, with a legal advocate, you can focus on recovering compensation for your injuries from negligent parties, such as the boat operator. At the same time, we handle your case’s procedural and legal details.

What to Expect From the Boating Crash Claims Process

The boating accident claims process in Lake Charles can be overwhelming. While you are still healing from your injuries, the last thing you want to be thinking about is bringing your case to court. However, if you understand the claims process better, you may feel more at ease with your decision to bring the liable party to justice.

Here is an idea of what you can expect from the Lake Charles boating accident claims process after you hire a boat accident lawyer in Lake Charles, LA. We will:

  • Answer your questions and give you legal advice.
  • Begin investigating the cause of your boating accident.
  • Obtain the evidence needed to prove negligence and liability.
  • Collect evidence to support the value of your damages, such as medical records, receipts, and bills for related expenses.
  • Prepare to file claims with the insurance company.
  • Begin negotiations with the insurance adjuster.
  • Prepare to bring your case to court if necessary.
  • Advocate for total compensation before the judge.

Every boating accident case is different, but after you review the details of your case with your boat accident attorney in Lake Charles, LA, you will have a better idea of what the claims process will look like for your case and how much you could expect to be awarded if you win.

Client Testimonials Hear from locals like you.

Toni is an absolute professional. She consistently goes above and beyond for her clients, ensuring every detail is handled with care and precision. He...

Toni is an absolute professional. She consistently goes above and beyond for her clients, ensuring every detail is handled with care and precision. Her communication is clear, and she truly cares about delivering results. I couldn’t recommend her more highly!

M
Mimi

Lake Charles

At the very first meeting with Alexis and Danielle they took the time to explain everything to us so that we understood what we were going to go throu...

At the very first meeting with Alexis and Danielle they took the time to explain everything to us so that we understood what we were going to go through. They checked in on us to see how things were going with DR appointment and therapy. They checked in on the phone or by text and if I had a question and I was in Lafayette and I would stop by the office one of them would come to answer my questions. I truly appreciate the response and respect that they showed to me and my husband and I would really recommend them to family and friends.

H
Hazel G.

Elizabeth Lachney I absolutely hands down the best. She is very professional, knowledgeable and most importantly she is very respectful. She is one re...

Elizabeth Lachney I absolutely hands down the best. She is very professional, knowledgeable and most importantly she is very respectful. She is one reason why we use Laborde Earles Law Firm. They make you feel like family!

T
Tiffany Bardwell

New Iberia

I highly recommend hiring Laborde Earles for your personal injury needs. They have the most professional, friendly and communicative staff who are gua...

I highly recommend hiring Laborde Earles for your personal injury needs. They have the most professional, friendly and communicative staff who are guaranteed to work hard on your case and get the outcome you deserve. Brittani C. is one of the most organized, thorough and helpful paralegals I’ve ever had the pleasure of working with. She keeps you informed and answers all your questions throughout the litigation process.

P
Patrick Conner

Baton Rouge

I just want to say that Kelby is a wonderful Attorney and will do what ever it takes to make sure you are taking care of. And his Team of Paralegal's,...

I just want to say that Kelby is a wonderful Attorney and will do what ever it takes to make sure you are taking care of. And his Team of Paralegal's, Amber, Toni, Debbie, Alana & Erica are absolutely amazing. You couldn't have ask for better. And to Rachael, she was so sweet the other day when I needed some information about when my advance was going to be ready. Thank you Laborde Earle's Law Firm for always being the Best.

L
Lauren O'Quinn

New Orleans

The team at Laborde Earls is extremely helpful and knowledgeable. While I would recommend any team member, I would strongly urge you to speak with Mrs...

The team at Laborde Earls is extremely helpful and knowledgeable. While I would recommend any team member, I would strongly urge you to speak with Mrs. Courtney. I spoke with her multiple times, and each time she was patient and answered every question I had. She made me feel like I was the only client. Grateful for her and Laborde Earls!

T
Tracie Martin

Alexandria

Toni at LE is seriously so dedicated and a hard worker! LE is lucky to have this chick. She's so sweet but a little spicy (in a good, funny way!) whic...

Toni at LE is seriously so dedicated and a hard worker! LE is lucky to have this chick. She's so sweet but a little spicy (in a good, funny way!) which is always a breath of fresh air to be around someone who is genuine. She's a doll and anyone who comes into contact with her is a lucky one!

H
Hannah Johnson

Baton Rouge

I highly recommend Alexis Davis and this lawfirm. She is the true definition of professionalism, respect, understanding, patient, and many other thing...

I highly recommend Alexis Davis and this lawfirm. She is the true definition of professionalism, respect, understanding, patient, and many other things. Her detailed skills are very delightful. She goes out of her way to check on us, make sure we don't have any questions, and she is always on point. She moves very quick and always goes above and beyond for us to make sure we understand the process. I am so glad I ran into Laborde Earles and Alexis. Everyone will know about this company for sure and Alexis

R
R.S.

Lafayette

Love Laborde Earle's. They're dependable lawyers that let you know you can trust them. I would specifically recommend Derek Hebert. He's a great attor...

Love Laborde Earle's. They're dependable lawyers that let you know you can trust them. I would specifically recommend Derek Hebert. He's a great attorney who is extremely knowledgeable and you'll never doubt that he'll get the job done!

K
Kaitlin H.

Michelle Brouillette is always so pleasant whenever I call or stop by the office. She always has a smile on her face.

C
Christine G.

I was very pleased with the attention and detail that was given by Karely with Laborde Earle’s Injury lawyers. She answered all of my questions ...

I was very pleased with the attention and detail that was given by Karely with Laborde Earle’s Injury lawyers. She answered all of my questions and concerns, and her professionalism was top notch. Her phone etiquette, and calm and caring attitude was outstanding.

G
Gail

Baton Rouge

Michelle Brouillette is a wonderful addition to the Laborde Earles team.

M
Melanie B.

Mr. DC and Amber have always been available to answer my questions and concerns. I have never doubted that they were working on our side and have had ...

Mr. DC and Amber have always been available to answer my questions and concerns. I have never doubted that they were working on our side and have had our best interest and our well being as a priority. I would recommend them to friends and family. My case had some extenuating circumstances and they both worked diligently to help us. I am very thankful for their service and dedication to us.

M
Michel Lanclos

New Orleans

Stephanie Brooks was wonderful to work with! She was very professional during our interaction and extremely pleasant throughout the entire process. He...

Stephanie Brooks was wonderful to work with! She was very professional during our interaction and extremely pleasant throughout the entire process. Her kindness and clear communication made everything smooth and easy. Highly recommend working with her and the Laborde Earles Law Firm!

J
Jenifer Leger Dendy

Lafayette

They have good to keep me updated on the case but so far the settlement has not been reached.

L
Lisa S.

I had an amazing experience working with my paralegal, Wesley Guillory, at Laborde Earles Law Firm. Wesley went above and beyond for me throughout the...

I had an amazing experience working with my paralegal, Wesley Guillory, at Laborde Earles Law Firm. Wesley went above and beyond for me throughout the entire process. He was always patient, knowledgeable, and quick to respond to any questions I had. What stood out most was how genuinely he cared. He made sure I understood every step and always made me feel supported and informed.

Wesley’s professionalism and compassion truly set him apart. He made a stressful situation so much easier, and I’m incredibly grateful for all of his hard work. I highly recommend Wesley and the entire Laborde Earles team. They really do put their clients first.

J
Jaine Fisher

Lafayette

I highly recommend Derek Hebert to anyone in need of a skilled and trustworthy attorney. From the very beginning, Derek was professional, honest, and ...

I highly recommend Derek Hebert to anyone in need of a skilled and trustworthy attorney. From the very beginning, Derek was professional, honest, and incredibly responsive. He took the time to explain every step of the process in clear terms and always made sure I felt informed and supported.

His attention to detail, strong communication, and genuine dedication made a stressful situation much easier to navigate. Derek went above and beyond to achieve the best possible outcome, and I’m truly grateful for his hard work.

If you’re looking for an attorney who is knowledgeable, reliable, and truly cares about his clients, Derek Hebert is an outstanding choice.

B
Brylan Cormier

Lafayette

Courtney Marsh has a positive attitude and great attention to detail in her work!

R
Rhonda C.

Over the past 3 years I have encountered one of the best Law Firms in Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers which have been handling my Lejeune Contaminated T...

Over the past 3 years I have encountered one of the best Law Firms in Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers which have been handling my Lejeune Contaminated Toxic Water Claim. Mr. John Chaillot has been instrumental in advising me on documentation, timelines, and all matters pertaining to my case. A true professional and appreciated. Thank you.

S
Stephan C.

Working with Toni Stelly has been a great experience. She is compassionate and listens to me when I have a concern or need some information. Toni is q...

Working with Toni Stelly has been a great experience. She is compassionate and listens to me when I have a concern or need some information. Toni is quick to respond to my questions and gets things done!! Good experience working with this firm.

k
kelly

Lake Charles

I’m so grateful for the help I received from Renee McCaslin. From start to finish, they were kind, professional, and truly cared about my situat...

I’m so grateful for the help I received from Renee McCaslin. From start to finish, they were kind, professional, and truly cared about my situation. They made everything easy to understand and handled every detail with care. I felt supported the whole way through. I highly recommend Renee McCaslin to anyone looking for a paralegal who goes above and beyond.

R
Rosann Roberts

Lake Charles

Toni is the absolute BEST!!!! Not only is she the best paralegal but she’s also the best person I know. She is so intelligent, knowledgeable, ca...

Toni is the absolute BEST!!!! Not only is she the best paralegal but she’s also the best person I know. She is so intelligent, knowledgeable, caring, and goes above and beyond for everyone in her life. She is a true gem! To know her is to love her!! Anybody would be lucky to have someone like Toni in their corner.

S
Sarah Jorden

Marksville

Renee McCaslin goes above and beyond to help the clients. Her attention to detail is unmatched! Her kind heart and sweet spirit both go a long way in ...

Renee McCaslin goes above and beyond to help the clients. Her attention to detail is unmatched! Her kind heart and sweet spirit both go a long way in making you feel heard and cared for. And, she’s, like, really pretty!

S
Sylvia Roy

New Iberia

Trudy Dupuy is a wonderful asset to the team. She does an amazing job.

A
Annabelle D.

Jordan is a wonderful paralegal very sweet and helpful good job very professional hold on to her she is a asset to your firm hard worker. Thank you fo...

Jordan is a wonderful paralegal very sweet and helpful good job very professional hold on to her she is a asset to your firm hard worker. Thank you for all your hard work to all the people working on our case.

S
Sandi W.

Each time I interact with a member of the Laborde Earls team I am always extremely satisfied with the service provided. I had the pleasure of speaking...

Each time I interact with a member of the Laborde Earls team I am always extremely satisfied with the service provided. I had the pleasure of speaking with Mrs. Marsh today. She was extremely knowledgeable in addition to being patient and empathetic. She was able to provide me with the necessary resources and provided me with encouragement throughout the process. I definitely recommend Laborde Earls! Ask for Courtney!

M
Megan C.

Courtney Marsh is professional and passionate about her clients! Her communication skills are top notch and she has been amazing to work with! She is ...

Courtney Marsh is professional and passionate about her clients! Her communication skills are top notch and she has been amazing to work with! She is truly a blessing!

T
Tori E.

The team at Laborde Earls is extremely helpful and knowledgeable. While I would recommend any team member, I would strongly urge you to speak with Mrs...

The team at Laborde Earls is extremely helpful and knowledgeable. While I would recommend any team member, I would strongly urge you to speak with Mrs. Courtney. I spoke with her multiple times, and each time she was patient and answered every question I had. She made me feel like I was the only client. Grateful for her and Laborde Earls!

T
Tracie M.

Working with Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers was an incredible experience from beginning to end. Jeanne and Kaitlyn were absolutely amazing - profession...

Working with Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers was an incredible experience from beginning to end. Jeanne and Kaitlyn were absolutely amazing - professional and always on top of everything. They kept me informed throughout the entire process and made sure I understood every step along the way. My case was resolved better than expected. I can’t thank them enough.

M
Melody Johnson

New Orleans

Elizabeth Lachney was super helpful in explaining a lot of things i didnt understand about my case. Very respectful and seemed so welling to help me! ...

Elizabeth Lachney was super helpful in explaining a lot of things i didnt understand about my case. Very respectful and seemed so welling to help me! She is the best, I 1000% recommend her if you have any questions!

s
skylar bachman

New Iberia

Syntera was Very professional and courteous. Answered my concerns.

L
Lisa G.

I had the pleasure of working with Erica Ducote, and I cannot say enough about the excellent job she did on my case. From the very beginning, Erica wa...

I had the pleasure of working with Erica Ducote, and I cannot say enough about the excellent job she did on my case. From the very beginning, Erica was professional, knowledgeable, and attentive to every detail. She took the time to explain each step of the process, answered all of my questions thoroughly, and made sure I always felt supported and informed.
Her dedication and attention to detail were clear throughout, and it was evident she genuinely cared about achieving the best possible outcome. Thanks to Erica’s hard work and expertise, my case went smoothly and successfully.
I highly recommend Erica Ducote to anyone in need of a skilled, reliable, and compassionate paralegal. She truly goes above and beyond!

m
maddie jo

Marksville

Jourdan is an outstanding paralegal! She is knowledgeable, organized, and truly cares about the clients she works with. Every interaction I’ve h...

Jourdan is an outstanding paralegal! She is knowledgeable, organized, and truly cares about the clients she works with. Every interaction I’ve had with her has been positive — she takes the time to explain things clearly and makes the process much less stressful. Laborde Earles Law Firm is lucky to have someone like Jourdan on their team. I would highly recommend both Jourdan and the firm to anyone looking for trustworthy and reliable legal support.

M
Matt Picard

New Orleans

I am able to witness Karely Cornwell handle calls from people who are in need of Laborde Earles services. She is always polite and professional. I thi...

I am able to witness Karely Cornwell handle calls from people who are in need of Laborde Earles services. She is always polite and professional. I think it’s safe to assume that the majority of people who call in are stressed and to have someone who is calm and kind taking the call is a great representation of the company.

D
Debbie Fontenot

Marksville

I am very impressed with Jillie Boone’s professionalism and dedication. She demonstrates excellent communication skills, strong attention to det...

I am very impressed with Jillie Boone’s professionalism and dedication. She demonstrates excellent communication skills, strong attention to detail, and a high level of reliability. Jillie consistently goes above and beyond to ensure that everything is handled efficiently and with care. Her knowledge and work ethic make her an outstanding professional, and I would highly recommend her!

j
jazlynn meece

Baton Rouge

Renee McCaslin is incredibly knowledgeable, professional, and always goes above and beyond to make the legal process smooth and stress-free. I truly a...

Renee McCaslin is incredibly knowledgeable, professional, and always goes above and beyond to make the legal process smooth and stress-free. I truly appreciate her attention to detail and genuine care for her clients!

C
Courtnie Heltz

New Orleans

Eryn Laughlin is a good employee, we love her!

a
anonymous

Car Accident

Bridgette is absolutely phenomenal! She's one of the most professional, knowledgeable, and dedicated paralegals I've ever had the pleasure of working ...

Bridgette is absolutely phenomenal! She's one of the most professional, knowledgeable, and dedicated paralegals I've ever had the pleasure of working with. Her attention to detail is unmatched.
She catches things most people would overlook, and she always makes sure every document is perfect before it leaves her hands.
Beyond her incredible skill set, Bridgette is also kind, reliable, and a true team player. She communicates clearly, stays organized under pressure, and goes above and beyond to make sure clients and attorneys alike feel supported.
You can tell she genuinely cares about her work and the people she helps.
If you're lucky enough to have Bridgette as your paralegal, you're in the best possible hands. Five stars isn't enough for someone this exceptional!

B
Brittany Johnson

Alexandria

Each time I interact with a member of the Laborde Earls team I am always extremely satisfied with the service provided. I had the pleasure of speaking...

Each time I interact with a member of the Laborde Earls team I am always extremely satisfied with the service provided. I had the pleasure of speaking with Mrs. Marsh today. She was extremely knowledgeable in addition to being patient and empathetic. She was able to provide me with the necessary resources and provided me with encouragement throughout the process. I definitely recommend Laborde Earls! Ask for Courtney!

M
Megan Couvillon

Alexandria

Over 1,700 5-Star Reviews

Damages After a Boating Injury

Plaintiffs in a personal injury case could recover several types of damages. An injured person might recover compensation for:

Current and future medical bills

  • Lost earnings
  • Reduced earning capability
  • Property damage
  • Pain and suffering
  • Mental anguish
  • Repair or replacement expenses

If you lost a loved one in a boating accident, the potentially recoverable damages in your personal injury case might include:

  • Funeral costs
  • Pre-death medical expenses
  • Loss of companionship
  • Loss of guidance

Injured workers who file Jones Act claims are eligible to receive the same damages as in any other personal injury case. In some circumstances, they may recover even more through the Jones Act if they are awarded interest on their damages. You can discuss these damages with a compassionate Lake Charles wrongful death attorney.

Yes, You Can Afford to Hire a Lake Charles Boating Accident Lawyer To Handle Your Injury Claim

Before you try to handle your boating accident injury claim on your own out of fear of the expense of hiring an attorney, it might help to know how we handle the legal fees in these cases. A boating accident injury claim or a lawsuit is a personal injury case. We handle personal injury cases on a contingency fee basis.

A contingency fee means that you do not pay any upfront legal fees. We work on your entire injury claim or lawsuit without any payment during the case.

Only at the end of the matter do we receive payment of our legal fees as a portion of the insurance proceeds or jury award. We do not get paid until you win.

Pitfalls That Could Cost You Money in Your Injury Case

The monetary value of your boating accident injury claim is not set in stone at the time of the accident. Things could impact how much money you can recover for your losses. Here are some situations you want to avoid after getting hurt in a boating accident:

Giving a Recorded Statement

Claims adjusters often ask injured people to give a recorded statement. The adjuster asks you questions and records your responses, which are transcribed later.
A recorded statement does not benefit you. If anything, it gives the at-fault party’s insurer material they can cherry-pick to present a version of the facts that might not be in your favor.

If you get asked to provide a request statement, you can simply reply that the individual should talk to your boat accident lawyer in Lake Charles, LA. Your boating accident attorney can provide all the information that the defendant needs. Also, when a lawyer represents you, the other side cannot contact you directly.

Accepting a Low-Ball Settlement Offer

Sometimes people do not realize that injury claim settlements are negotiable. You are not required to accept the negligent party’s insurance company’s first offer.
No matter what they might say to the contrary, the insurer does not offer its maximum settlement authority amount on the first offer. They always leave room to negotiate.

Do not try to handle your injury claim without a lawyer. You most likely do not have access to the jury verdict databases that lawyers and insurance companies use to determine the settlement value of a claim. Most people who try to settle their injury claims alone find out later that they should have received much more money.

Talking About Your Accident on Social Media

When you have a pending injury claim or personal injury lawsuit, the defendant can usually get access to your social media accounts. No matter your privacy settings, you should expect that the liability insurer will be able to find the photographs and comments you post.

Taking a break from social media is best until your claim gets resolved. You might also want to ask your friends and family not to post anything about the accident or your injuries.

Contact a Lake Charles Boat Accident Attorney Today

Proving liability in a maritime or recreational boat accident can be complicated and often requires the help of an attorney.

If you were injured on or by a vessel, schedule a free case consultation with a Lake Charles, LA, boat accident attorney at Laborde Earles by contacting us today.

Get Legal Help Today Talk to a Louisiana Local Attorney Today

25+ Attorneys Collaboration on every case

Call Anytime Speak to our local team 24/7

(337) 612-6909
This field is required.
This field is required.
This field is required.
This field is required.
This field is required.
Send Message
Accessibility: If you are vision-impaired or have some other impairment covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act or a similar law, and you wish to discuss potential accommodations related to using this website, please contact our Accessibility Manager at (337) 612-6909.