Unfortunately, accidents of all types are not uncommon in Louisiana. While some of these are unpreventable or nearly so, others are directly caused by the actions of others. Boat accidents are one example as they are frequently caused by the irresponsible behavior of others.
Last summer, a boating accident involving a drunken politician was widely publicized. The politician drove his boat right into the path of an oncoming boat at a very high speed, which resulted in a violent collision. The other boat contained a man and his grandchildren, who were seriously injured as a result of the accident. Recently, the politician has spoken publicly about the incident, admitting that he had a serious problem with alcohol. At the time of the accident, his blood alcohol content level was three times the legal limit.
While the other man and his grandchildren seem to have survived the accident, other people involved in collisions caused by an intoxicated boater or reckless driver are not so lucky. Fortunately, there are legal mechanisms that can provide compensation for Louisiana victims when an accident is due to the negligence or fault of another person. By filing a personal injury lawsuit against the party or parties responsible for an accident, victims can receive money to cover medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage.
It may be difficult to contemplate initiating a personal injury lawsuit soon after a traumatic incident. Having sufficient money to cover bills and day-to-day expenses, however, can be essential to a person’s recovery and future stability, especially when dealing with a long-term debilitating condition. By consulting with an attorney soon after a boat accident, victims can preserve evidence and discuss their case to know how to best proceed to protect their own interests and those of their family.
Source: CBS Baltimore, “Delegate Charged In Drunken Boat Crash Opens Up About His Battle With Alcohol,” Feb. 7, 2013