Missouri is home to some of the most beautiful recreational waters in the country. From the expansive shoreline of Lake of the Ozarks to the clear waters of Table Rock Lake, boating is a way of life for many of our neighbors in Columbia, Joplin, and the surrounding areas. However, the relaxed atmosphere of a day on the water can change in an instant. Boating accidents often result in serious, life-altering injuries, leaving victims unsure of where to turn for help.
Unlike a car accident on I-70 or I-44, accidents involving boats and personal watercraft (PWC) involve a unique set of maritime regulations and liability questions. At Sticklen & Sticklen, we have spent decades helping Missouri families navigate the complexities of personal injury law, and we understand what it takes to secure results when negligence occurs on the water.
Understanding Negligence on the Water
Liability in a boating accident often hinges on the concept of “negligence.” Simply put, boat operators have a legal duty to operate their vessels in a safe and responsible manner. When that duty is breached, and someone is injured as a result, the operator may be held liable for damages.
Common forms of negligence we see on Missouri lakes include:
- Operator Inattention: Just like distracted driving on the road, failing to maintain a proper lookout is a leading cause of collisions.
- Speeding in “No Wake” Zones: Disregarding speed markers or operating at unsafe speeds in crowded coves.
- Boating Under the Influence (BUI): Missouri law is clear regarding BUI, and the consequences of operating a vessel while intoxicated are devastating.
- Inexperience: Allowing an untrained or underage individual to operate a high-powered vessel or PWC.
Determining Liability in Complex Collisions
One of the most difficult aspects of a boating accident is determining who is at fault, especially when multiple vessels or environmental factors are involved. In Missouri, we follow a system of pure comparative fault. This means that even if you were partially responsible for the incident, you may still be able to recover a portion of your damages.
However, insurance companies for boat owners often fight these claims aggressively. They may argue that the “inherent risks” of boating or unpredictable water conditions were the primary cause of the accident. Our team knows how to counter these arguments by gathering evidence, such as water patrol reports, witness statements, and GPS data, to prove exactly what happened.
What to Do After a Lake Accident
If you are involved in an accident on the water, your first priority is the safety and medical care of everyone involved. Once the situation is stable, it is vital to report the accident to the Missouri State Highway Patrol – Water Patrol Division. Documentation is the foundation of any successful personal injury claim.
Because boating insurance policies can be significantly different from standard auto insurance, it is important to have a legal team that understands how to identify all potential sources of recovery. Whether the accident involved a rental boat, a jet ski, or a private cruiser, we work to ensure that medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering are fully accounted for.
Local Representation You Can Trust
At Sticklen & Sticklen, we don’t believe in the “big city” law firm approach. We are a father-daughter team dedicated to providing personalized, results-driven representation to our Missouri community. If you or a loved one has been injured on a Missouri lake due to someone else’s recklessness, you shouldn’t have to carry the financial burden alone.
Contact Sticklen & Sticklen today for a free consultation. We are ready to listen to your story and help you chart a path toward recovery. Visit our Personal Injury page to learn more about how we fight for the rights of the injured.