Columbia Boat Accident Lawyer
According to reports from the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) and U.S. Coast Guard data, the state consistently records over 150 boating accidents annually. And unlike car drivers, boat operators in South Carolina are not required to obtain a boating license or complete formal boater education unless born after July 1, 2007. Lack of proper training combined with the prevalent use of alcohol can lead to fatal accidents. When an incident occurs on the water, you need an experienced Columbia boat accident lawyer.
At Koon Cook & Walters, our knowledgeable Columbia boat accident lawyers advocate for those hurt in South Carolina boating accidents on Lake Murray, Lake Wateree and other waterways. Our trial attorneys pursue accountability in catastrophic injury and wrongful death cases involving boat collisions, boating under the influence (BUI) operator inattention, and other preventable hazards, helping victims and families move forward with clarity and support. Contact our team at 803-991-0685 or online for a free case evaluation.
Why Hire Koon Cook & Walters For Your Boating Accident Case?
You can rest easy about your case, knowing our lawyers have:
- Nearly 60 years of combined experience handling personal injury cases
- Recovered over $50 million on behalf of South Carolina’s injured
- High ratings from Super Lawyers and other magazines for professionalism and client service
- The ability to provide full support from the initial investigation to settlement negotiations or trial
We are trial-tested attorneys who understand South Carolina injury law.
Most Common Causes Of Boat Accidents In Columbia, South Carolina
Some of the common causes of boating accidents we often see include:
- Boating Under the Influence (BUI): Many operators believe BUI laws are less strict than drinking and driving laws.
- Operator inexperience: Some operators lack an understanding of emergency procedures.
- Reckless operation: Excessive speed, ignoring no-wake zones, failing to observe right-of-way and performing dangerous maneuvers in congested areas.
- Equipment failure: Mechanical defects and faulty safety equipment.
- Partying and boating culture: In South Carolina’s lake culture, people drink and drive boats all the time.
- Heavy recreational traffic: Weekends and holidays bring heavy boat traffic, raising the risk of collisions.
- Weather conditions: Sudden storms and high winds can quickly become dangerous.
- Passenger misconduct: Passengers who distract the operator.
Our experienced Columbia boat accident lawyer can thoroughly investigate your boating accident to identify all potentially liable parties.
Most Common Injuries In South Carolina Boating Accidents
Since boats offer limited structural protection, they often result in severe injuries. Some of the common injuries we have handled include:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) resulting in memory loss
- Spine injuries or paralysis
- Amputations due to severe propeller strikes
- Severe lacerations caused by sharp equipment
- Broken and fractured bones, especially the limbs
- Damage to internal organs from hitting objects
- Wrongful death due to drowning or striking objects
Our boating accident lawyer can help you fight to recover fair damages and rebuild your life.
Why You Need An Experienced Columbia Boating Accident Lawyer For Your Case
Here is why you should hire our boat accident attorney:
- Complex liability issues: Since South Carolina does not legally require boat owners to carry liability insurance, we can help identify whether the operator or the owner pays for the damages.
- Uninsured or underinsured boats: Since liability insurance is not legally required, not all boats are insured. We can help explore alternative sources of recovery.
- Professional representation: Within the lake community, at-fault parties may have personal connections with a lawyer. You also deserve professional representation to protect your interests.
- Complex waterway regulations: We can help you understand South Carolina waterway regulations and the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) investigation processes.
- Maximizing compensation: We can help prove negligence to build a compelling case for full compensation.
- Trial experience: Our experience in trials enables us to negotiate effectively on your behalf.
- Direct attorney communication: You will always have direct access to an attorney.
- Financial benefits: Free consultation and contingency fee-based services.
Our experience and commitment to client advocacy set us apart as a trusted Columbia boat accident lawyer team.
Can You Recover Compensation If You Too Were Drinking?
Yes, you may recover compensation even if you were drinking. South Carolina follows a modified comparative negligence rule in handling personal injury cases. As such, you may still recover compensation as long as you are not more than 50% at fault for the accident. However, your recovery may be reduced by your percentage of fault.
Although this rule may seem simple, you still need an experienced Columbia boat accident lawyer for your case. Your lawyer can investigate to determine the other party’s negligence.
Schedule A Consultation With A Columbia Boating Accident Lawyer
Whether you or a loved one was injured in a South Carolina boat accident, our Columbia boat accident lawyer can help pursue justice. Koon Cook & Walters provides trusted, reliable and compassionate client advocacy to injured boat accident victims in Columbia, Winnsboro, Irmo, Blythewood and West Columbia. Call 803-991-0685 or fill out our online form now to schedule a free consultation.