Nashville
Boat Accident Lawyers
Boating accidents can result in various injuries and damages. When someone has acted recklessly or negligently on a river, lake, or other waterway, you need to hold them accountable for their actions. A boating accident lawyer will help protect your rights. At NST Law, we are here to navigate the legal process for you. Discover how our team can assist you in these cases.
Due to the many lakes, rivers, and waterways around Nashville, boating is becoming a more popular recreational activity in Tennessee. However, the growing number of watercraft in the region has increased the risk of an accident.
Boating mishaps can cause traumatic injuries, including brain damage or lost limbs. In the most serious cases, the incidents can be fatal. Victims and their families have the right to seek compensation for their injuries and damages. These individuals often face mounting medical bills, complex insurance claims, and confusing legal options.
If you are in a similar situation, you need a knowledgeable boating accident lawyer. The Champions for the Injured at NST Law will protect your rights, help you navigate the legal process, and pursue the compensation you deserve. Call the Champs to learn how we can assist with your case.
Table Of Contents
- Nashville Boating Accident Lawyers at NST Law
- Boating Accidents in Nashville
- Boating Accident Legal Services From NST Law
- Guiding You Through Nashville’s Boating Accident Legal Process
- Boating Rules in Nashville, TN
- Securing Compensation for Nashville Boating Accident Victims
- Promoting Safe Boating To Reduce Nashville Boating Accidents
- Learn More About How NST Law Can Help
Nashville Boating Accident Lawyers at NST Law
For 30 years, NST Law has been a trusted personal injury law firm in Nashville. Our team understands Tennessee’s boating regulations, local rules, and boating accident laws.
We have successfully represented boating accident victims. Over the years, our attorneys have secured more than $2 billion in settlements for those injured in boating accidents or for families who lost a loved one from such an accident. When you need help with your case, call NST Law.
Boating Accidents in Nashville
Increased boating activity in the Nashville region has brought an uptick in accidents. In 2021, Tennessee reported 145 boating accident incidents.
Several factors contribute to these accidents in Nashville. As a tourist hotspot, many boaters are unfamiliar with the area’s waterways and local boating regulations. Plus, the density of boat traffic during peak hours and holidays also causes trouble as boaters must navigate crowded channels.
Alcohol consumption further contributes to boating accidents. According to the Centers for Disease Control, drinking is a factor in one in five boating deaths. The United States Coast Guard also cites alcohol consumption as the leading contributor to boating deaths nationwide. In fact, the odds of being involved in a fatal boating accident increase after just one drink.
Boating Accident Legal Services From NST Law
At NST Law, our legal team understands the nature of boating accident cases and how they unfold.
When an accident occurs, officers from the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency are typically the first responders on the scene. The TWRA patrols the waterways and enforces the Tennessee Boating Safety Act, constantly on the lookout for reckless, unsafe, or intoxicated boaters.
We work with these professionals and other responding agencies to get the facts of your case. We know all the nuances of the local laws and ordinances, which enables us to provide reliable and skilled representation for every client. We will:
- Listen to your case and gather details of the incident.
- Analyze the circumstances, determine your legal options, value your losses, and develop a legal strategy.
- Investigate your case to determine the cause and identify the responsible parties.
- Collect evidence, request reports from local law enforcement, and review records.
- Represent you in court and negotiate with the insurance company.
- Provide you with legal guidance through your entire case.
Guiding You Through Nashville’s Boating Accident Legal Process
Navigating a boating accident case in Nashville involves several key steps:
- Initial consultation: Our boating accident lawyers will discuss the accident details with you. We will listen to your concerns, understand your needs, and outline how we can assist you.
- Evidence collection: Next, we will focus on gathering all necessary evidence. Our team will obtain police reports, medical records, witness testimonies, and any other documentation. We also will collaborate with experts to analyze the circumstances and establish liability.
- Negotiation with insurance companies: After collecting key evidence, we will negotiate with the insurance companies. Our attorneys are skilled negotiators who will ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries.
- Filing a lawsuit: If negotiations do not result in an acceptable settlement, we are prepared to file a lawsuit on your behalf. Our team will create a fact-specific complaint, file it with the appropriate court, and serve it to the defendants.
- Court representation: Throughout the court proceedings, NST Law stands by your side. Our attorneys use their extensive courtroom experience to advocate for your rights and strive for the best possible outcome.
At every step of this process, NST Law is dedicated to providing you with the experienced legal guidance you need after a Nashville boating accident.
Boating Rules in Nashville, TN
In Nashville, TN, boating laws and regulations are enforced to ensure the safety of all waterway users. Under some of these rules:
- Boats must travel at a “no wake speed” within 300 feet of a commercial dock.
- Boaters must maintain a safe distance from divers’ “down” flags and travel at a “no wake” speed within 200 feet of the flag.
- Reckless operation of a vessel is punishable by law.
Tennessee uses modified comparative fault for these cases. Under this rule, a plaintiff may recover damages if their fault is less than 50 percent. This means that even if a boater is partially at fault for an accident, they can still receive compensation from the other party. In an accident involving two boats, both boaters could share liability.
Securing Compensation for Nashville Boating Accident Victims
In Nashville, boating accident victims have the right to claim various types of compensation. NST Law is dedicated to assisting victims in securing settlements, which can include:
- Funds to cover past, present, and future medical bills and rehabilitation costs
- Compensation for lost wages if accident injuries render the victim unable to work
- Compensation for property damage, including boat repair or replacement costs
There is a timeline to file a claim. Tennessee’s statute of limitations is one year from the time of the incident.
Promoting Safe Boating To Reduce Nashville Boating Accidents
In Nashville, promoting safe boating practices is crucial to reducing boating accidents. Here are some safety tips for Nashville boaters:
- Adhere to the same laws as other types of vehicles, including obeying traffic signs, signals, and lane markings.
- Wear a life jacket and require every passenger to do the same on board.
- Take a boating safety course to gain valuable knowledge and on-water experience in a boating safety course.
- Avoid using alcohol and drugs while operating a boat. These substances caused 4 percent of incidents in 2022.
Learn More About How NST Law Can Help
Boating accidents in Nashville can lead to serious injuries and complicated legal situations. At NST Law, our legal team understands the boating industry’s unique local ordinances and regulations. We are here to help you during this difficult time.
If you are searching for a legal team ready to champion your rights and secure the compensation you deserve, contact NST Law. Contact us today to schedule a consultation. Call our Nashville office at 615-249-1946 for a free initial appointment.
Contact us for a free consultation now so that we can review your case and decide how we can best help you.
2323 21st Avenue South
Suite 500
Nashville, TN 37212
Phone: 615-235-0766
Fax: 615-257-6797
