When the Rescuers Cause Harm: Coast Guard Boat Accident Lawsuits

When you see flashing lights and a Coast Guard vessel speeding toward trouble, the last thing you expect is for the rescuers to become the source of a tragic accident. But it happens. From high-speed collisions to negligent maneuvers in crowded marinas, Coast Guard vessels, like any other boat on the water, can cause serious injury or death when operators fail to act with proper caution.

For victims and their families, the situation is often confusing. Can you sue the Coast Guard? What rights do you have when a federal agency is involved? The truth is, even government rescue operations must follow the law, and when negligence occurs, they can be held accountable.

Understanding the Role of the U.S. Coast Guard and Its Limits

The U.S. Coast Guard is tasked with safeguarding our waterways, enforcing maritime laws, and conducting lifesaving missions. In emergencies, their presence is often welcome. However, they operate high-speed boats and powerful cutters, often in crowded or challenging conditions.

When Coast Guard crews make mistakes such as operating at unsafe speeds, failing to maintain a proper lookout, or misjudging distance, it can have catastrophic consequences. In recent years, there have been documented incidents of Coast Guard vessels colliding with civilian boats, damaging docks, and, in tragic cases, striking swimmers or paddleboarders.

When the Coast Guard Is at Fault

Not all boating accidents involving the Coast Guard are caused by negligence. However, when reckless decisions, poor training, or failure to follow maritime safety protocols are involved, victims may have legal recourse. Common causes of Coast Guard-related accidents include:

• Navigating at excessive speeds in non-emergency situations
• Operating in restricted or congested areas without adequate warning
• Failing to communicate with surrounding vessels properly
• Colliding with smaller recreational boats
• Mishandling search-and-rescue maneuvers

Even during official missions, the Coast Guard is expected to exercise reasonable care, especially when civilians are present.

Can You Sue the U.S. Coast Guard?

Bringing a claim against a branch of the federal government is more complex than suing a private boat owner, but it is possible. Claims against the Coast Guard generally fall under the Federal Tort Claims Act (FTCA) or the Admiralty Extension Act, depending on where and how the accident occurred.

These laws enable private citizens to pursue compensation from the government for injuries caused by federal employees acting within the scope of their duties, provided certain legal requirements are met.

Filing this kind of claim involves strict notice deadlines, specialized procedures, and potential limitations on the types of damages you can recover. But with the help of an experienced maritime injury attorney, victims may still pursue justice and accountability.

Do You Have a Case?

If you or someone you love was injured in an incident involving a Coast Guard vessel, you may be eligible to file a claim. You’ll need to show that the Coast Guard acted negligently and that their actions directly caused your injuries or losses.

That could include situations where a Coast Guard boat struck your vessel, caused a wake that flipped a smaller boat, failed to yield right of way, or made a dangerous maneuver near swimmers. If the incident resulted in medical bills, lost income, property damage, or emotional trauma, you may be able to pursue compensation through a federal claim process.

How a Morgan & Morgan Lawyer Can Help

Cases involving the U.S. Coast Guard and other federal entities require knowledge of maritime law and the complex web of procedures surrounding federal claims. A seasoned attorney can evaluate the facts, determine whether the Coast Guard’s conduct meets the legal threshold for negligence, and help file the appropriate administrative claims.

If the agency denies responsibility or refuses to offer fair compensation, your lawyer can escalate the matter to federal court. This legal support ensures that your voice is heard, even when you’re up against the full weight of the federal government.

Why These Claims Matter

Boating injuries can leave lifelong consequences, such as broken bones, spinal injuries, traumatic brain damage, or even death. When the harm is caused not by a fellow boater but by the very agency meant to protect you, the emotional toll can be even greater.

Filing a claim helps you recover financially, but it also signals to the Coast Guard and other agencies that safety must remain a priority. Victims deserve justice, and families deserve answers.

We’re For The People.

If a Coast Guard vessel caused your injury or the loss of a loved one, Morgan & Morgan may be able to help. Our legal team has the experience, resources, and determination to stand up to government agencies and fight for what you’re owed.

Contact us today for a free, no-obligation case evaluation.