If you were hurt in a boat or jet ski accident, you may be dealing with serious injuries, missed work, and mounting medical bills. Our boating accident lawyer in Des Plaines can help you understand your options and pursue the compensation you may be owed. At Charlie Therman Injury & Accident Lawyers, P.C., we are ready to fight for you. Choose Charlie.
When injuries happen on the water, it can feel overwhelming to know where to turn. Our team has over 75 years of combined legal experience and has recovered more than $100 million for injured clients across the Chicago area.
If you are ready to take the next step, reach out to our Des Plaines personal injury lawyer team today for a free consultation.
What to Do After a Boating Accident
The moments after a boating accident can be chaotic and frightening. Taking the right steps early can protect your health and your legal rights. Even if you feel fine at the scene, some injuries do not show up right away.
Here are some steps to take after a boating accident:
- Seek medical attention as soon as possible, even for minor symptoms
- Report the accident to the Illinois Department of Natural Resources
- Gather contact and insurance information from any other boaters involved
- Take photographs of the scene, your injuries, and any property damage
- Avoid giving recorded statements to insurance companies without legal guidance
Common Causes of Boating Accidents in Des Plaines
Boating accidents can happen for many reasons, and understanding the cause of your accident may help determine who is responsible. Illinois waterways see a range of recreational craft, from pleasure boats to jet skis, and accidents can involve multiple parties.
Some of the most common causes include:
- Operator inattention or inexperience
- Boating under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Excessive speed on the water
- Failure to follow right-of-way rules
- Poor weather conditions combined with reckless operation
- Defective or poorly maintained watercraft equipment
Identifying the cause is a key part of building a strong legal claim. We work to investigate the facts thoroughly and identify all liable parties.
Injuries Sustained in Pleasure Craft and Jet Ski Accidents
Boating accidents can result in serious and life-altering injuries. The open water environment makes these incidents particularly dangerous, especially when safety equipment is not used properly. Victims may face months of recovery and significant financial hardship. Sadly, many people also drown.
Common injuries in these accidents include traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, broken bones, lacerations, and near-drowning events. Internal injuries are also possible and may not be immediately apparent after the accident. The full impact of these injuries may not become clear until weeks later.
If you do not have health insurance, that does not mean you cannot get care. We have relationships with medical providers who accept liens, meaning you can receive treatment now and address costs after your case is resolved.
How Compensation Works in a Des Plaines Boating Accident Claim
When you file a boating accident injury claim, you may be able to recover compensation for a range of losses. The amount you can recover depends on the specific facts of your case, the severity of your injuries, and the insurance coverage available. A boat accident attorney in Des Plaines can help you identify what damages may apply to your situation.
Recoverable damages may include:
- Medical expenses, both current and future
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage to your vessel or personal belongings
- Emotional distress related to the accident
Illinois law places time limits on how long you have to file a personal injury claim. Acting promptly can help protect your right to seek compensation. Waiting too long may put your claim at risk.
Why Choose Charlie Therman Injury & Accident Lawyers, P.C.
At Charlie Therman Injury & Accident Lawyers, P.C., we have been standing up for injured people in the Chicago area since 2002. We are not a high-volume firm where you become just another case number. Every client receives personal attention and direct communication with our legal team throughout the process.
Our founding partner spent time working on the insurance defense side with Allstate. That experience gives us a clear view of how insurance companies think and what strategies they use to reduce or deny claims. We use that insight to advocate more effectively on your behalf.
We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay nothing up front. We only get paid if you recover compensation. We also offer Zoom consultations and a client portal so you can stay informed and connected throughout your case.
Speak with a Boating Accident Attorney in Des Plaines
After a boating accident, you should not have to face the legal process alone. Contact Charlie Therman Injury & Accident Lawyers, P.C. today for a free consultation and let us review your case at no cost to you. We are ready to listen, answer your questions, and help you understand your options.
Our team is committed to fighting for injured people across Des Plaines and the surrounding Chicago area. Whether your accident involved a pleasure craft or a jet ski, a Des Plaines boating accident lawyer from our firm can help you pursue the outcome you need. Reach out today and let us go to bat for you.
