La Crosse Boat Accident Lawyer

Your Premier Choice for Boating Accident Claims in La Crosse, WI

Boating can be a relaxing and enjoyable way to spend time, especially in the scenic waters of La Crosse, Wisconsin. However, a fun day on the water can quickly turn dangerous or even deadly when accidents occur.

At Bye, Goff & Rohde, our dedicated team of La Crosse boat accident lawyers is here to help you navigate the complexities of your case and achieve justice. Our experienced team of boat accident attorneys is here to protect your rights and help you pursue the compensation you deserve.

Let our experienced La Crosse boat accident lawyers fight for the justice and compensation you deserve. Call (608) 602-7272 or fill out an online contact form.

Common Causes of Boat Accidents

Boating accidents can happen for a variety of reasons, many of which are caused by negligence. Understanding the most common causes of boat accidents can help you determine whether you have grounds to pursue a personal injury claim. Here are some of the leading causes of boating accidents in La Crosse:

• Operator Inattention: When boat operators become distracted and fail to notice hazards like other vessels, swimmers, or changing weather conditions, serious accidents can occur.
• Operator Inexperience: Inexperienced boat operators may lack the skills and knowledge needed to navigate safely, especially in crowded or challenging waters.
• Alcohol Use: Operating a boat while under the influence of alcohol or drugs (BWI) is one of the leading causes of boat accidents. Impaired judgment and slower reaction times can have tragic consequences on the water.
• Excessive Speed: Driving a boat too fast can make it difficult to control the vessel and avoid collisions with other boats or obstacles, particularly in poor weather or congested areas.
• Poor Weather Conditions: Sudden storms, high winds, and fog can make boating dangerous, especially if the operator isn’t prepared to navigate through challenging conditions.
• Mechanical Failure: Like any vehicle, boats can experience mechanical issues, from engine malfunctions to steering problems, which can lead to accidents if not addressed promptly.
• Violation of Navigation Rules: Just as there are rules for driving on the road, there are navigation rules for boating. Violating these rules, such as failing to yield the right of way, can result in collisions.
• Overloading the Boat: Carrying too many passengers or too much cargo can destabilize a boat, increasing the risk of capsizing.
• Lack of Safety Equipment: Failing to have life jackets, fire extinguishers, and other necessary safety equipment on board can turn a minor incident into a major emergency.

Common Types of Boat Accidents

At Bye, Goff & Rohde, we handle a wide range of boating accident cases. Some of the most common types of boat accidents we see in La Crosse include:

• Boat Collisions: Collisions with other boats, docks, or fixed objects are frequent and can cause significant damage and injuries.
• Capsizing: A boat can capsize due to rough waters, overloading, or improper weight distribution, leading to dangerous situations for passengers.
• Flooding: Leaks or structural damage can cause a boat to flood, putting everyone on board at risk.
• Explosions and Fires: Fuel leaks or engine malfunctions can lead to explosions or fires, resulting in severe injuries or even fatalities.
• Slips and Falls: Wet, slippery surfaces on boats can lead to falls, causing injuries like broken bones, head trauma, or even drowning.
• Water Skiing and Jet Ski Accidents: High-speed activities like water skiing and jet skiing can result in serious injuries, especially if safety protocols are not followed.
• Carbon Monoxide Poisoning: Boat engines emit carbon monoxide, and without proper ventilation, this colorless, odorless gas can build up and lead to poisoning.

Injuries Resulting from Boat Accidents

Boat accidents can cause a wide range of injuries, some of which can have long-lasting effects on your health and quality of life. Common injuries include:

• Burns and Lacerations: Explosions, fires, and propeller accidents can cause severe burns and deep cuts.
• Head and Brain Injuries: Concussions and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are common in boat accidents due to falls or collisions.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: Accidents can cause damage to the spinal cord, leading to paralysis or other permanent disabilities.
• Broken Bones and Amputations: High-impact accidents can result in broken bones, and in some cases, the loss of limbs.
• Drowning and Wrongful Death: Tragically, some boating accidents result in drowning or other fatal injuries.

Damages You May Be Entitled To

If you have been injured in a boat accident, you may be entitled to compensation for your losses. At Bye, Goff & Rohde, we fight for the following types of damages:

• Medical Expenses: This includes hospital bills, surgeries, rehabilitation, and long-term medical care.
• Lost Wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, you may be entitled to compensation for lost wages and loss of earning capacity.
• Pain and Suffering: Compensation for the physical pain and emotional distress you experience as a result of the accident.
• Loss of Enjoyment of Life: If your injuries prevent you from enjoying activities you once loved, you may be entitled to compensation.
• Disfigurement and Scarring: Compensation for permanent disfigurement or scarring resulting from your injuries.
• Loss of Consortium: In wrongful death cases, family members may be entitled to compensation for the loss of companionship and support.

Why Choose Bye, Goff & Rohde?

With over 180 years of combined experience as personal injury lawyers serving La Crosse and the surrounding areas, Bye, Goff & Rohde is here to provide the legal support you need during this challenging time. We will evaluate your case thoroughly and discuss your options, including the process of filing a personal injury lawsuit against the responsible party.

If you have been injured in a boating accident, don’t hesitate to reach out. Contact Bye, Goff & Rohde for a free consultation with a personal injury attorney who understands the local waters and the unique challenges you may face.

Get Help Today

At Bye, Goff & Rohde, we have the experience and resources needed to handle these types of cases. We are dedicated to helping you obtain the compensation you deserve and will fight tirelessly on your behalf.

Your recovery is our priority. Call us at (608) 602-7272 or fill out our online contact form to let us help you navigate the legal waters after a  La Crosse boating accident.