(407) 904-6230 877 667 4265

Jackson Maritime & Boating Accidents

Mississippi’s waterways are legendary. Two million people boat, waterski, fish and swim on the Ross Barnett Reservoir every year. The Mississippi River — immortalized by such artists as Mark Twain and Johnny Cash — is a major line of commerce and a popular place for recreation. The Pearl River is also a vital resource for Jackson residents and businesses. Unfortunately, however, these beautiful Mississippi waterways are also the sites of numerous accidents.

Morgan & Morgan is a Jackson law firm dedicated to injury recovery. We handle claims involving recreational boating accidents in motorboats, personal watercraft and kayaks. We also assist maritime workers who have been injured on vessels or on shore.

Our boat accident lawyers can help you recover for medical bills, lost wages, disability, disfigurement and pain and suffering. If your loved one died in a boating crash, we offer compassionate, respectful wrongful death representation that helps your family through this difficult time. Contact us today to talk about your case.

FAQ

Morgan & Morgan

    Boating Injuries and Deaths

    In 2015, the U.S. Coast Guard recorded 4,158 reported recreational boating accidents that killed 626 and injured 2,613 people. Though injuries went down compared to 2014, deaths and accidents increased. Common accidents cited include:

    • Drowning or near drowning
    • Propeller accidents
    • Collisions between two boats
    • Skiing-related spinal cord injuries
    • Swimmer run over by boater
    • Onboard slip and fall head injuries

    Causes of Recreational Boating Accidents in Mississippi

    Boaters often act more recklessly while operating a boat than they would a car. Yet, the top causes of boating accidents in Jackson are similar to auto accidents, including:

    • Boating while drunk — Alcohol is the leading factor in 21 percent of boating deaths. Operating a boat with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08 is illegal, and violators who cause injuries should be held accountable to their victims.
    • Distracted boating — A distracted boater may not see a swimmer, a downed skier or a dive flag. They are also more likely to lose control of the watercraft and crash into a dock or a sandbar, or be tossed by a large wake.
    • Speeding boaters — The open water often tempts boaters to increase the throttle. However, speeding boaters are at higher risk of crashing or hitting a person in the water.
    • Inexperienced boaters — Mississippians are permitted to operate a boat long before they are allowed to drive. In fact, the only restriction on children under 12 is that an adult who is at least 21 years old must accompany them. Laws now require a boater education class, but the requirement is waived for many older adults who were grandfathered in, allowing inexperienced boaters to create a risk on the water.

    Call our Boat Accident Injury Attorneys Today

    Morgan & Morgan protects your rights after a boating accident. Our experienced Jackson boat accident attorneys are ready to discuss your rights and options for recovery. Schedule a free case evaluation today.

Related Pages