A sailboat is tilted heavily to one side in choppy water under a cloudy sky, illustrating the risks of boating accidents.
A sailboat is tilted heavily to one side in choppy water under a cloudy sky, illustrating the risks of boating accidents.

Boating Accidents

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Boating accidents can be terrifying and disorienting, especially when they occur in the open waters around Irvine or nearby coastal destinations, such as Newport Harbour or the Back Bay. Whether you were injured on a private vessel, a rental boat, or a commercial tour, it’s crucial to know the steps to take after a boating accident in Irvine to protect yourself legally and financially.

At Ghassemi Law Group, we’ve helped numerous boating accident victims navigate the complex aftermath of watercraft-related injuries. Here’s what you need to do immediately following an incident on the water.

1. Get to Safety and Check for Injuries

The first priority after a boating accident is safety. Move all passengers to a secure area, administer first aid if you’re able, and make sure no one is in immediate danger of drowning, hypothermia, or further injury.

If anyone is seriously injured, call for emergency medical assistance immediately. In life-threatening cases, contact the U.S. Coast Guard or the California State Parks Division of Boating and Waterways.

2. Report the Accident to Authorities

Under California law, boating accidents must be reported in many cases, especially if there is injury, death, disappearance, or property damage exceeding $500.

In Irvine and surrounding waters, file a report with the appropriate agency, such as:

  • California State Parks

  • U.S. Coast Guard (for coastal or navigable waters)

  • Local law enforcement, if applicable

Failure to report the accident may not only hinder your injury claim but could also result in penalties.

3. Document the Scene Thoroughly

Just like a car crash, documentation is critical. If it’s safe, take photos of:

  • The damaged boats or watercraft

  • Visible injuries

  • Safety equipment (or lack thereof)

  • Weather or water conditions

  • Registration numbers of all involved vessels

Also, gather contact information from:

  • All parties involved in the accident

  • Witnesses

  • Boat owners and operators

These details will serve as vital evidence when building your legal claim.

4. Seek Medical Attention: Even If You Feel Fine

Not all injuries are immediately visible. Trauma, like whiplash, internal bleeding, or concussions, may take hours or days to appear. Always visit a medical professional as soon as possible.

Prompt care not only protects your health but also strengthens your case by connecting your injuries directly to the boating accident. Medical records are essential documentation for insurance companies and courts.

5. Consult a Boating Accident Lawyer in Irvine

One of the most critical steps to take after a boating accident in Irvine is contacting an experienced personal injury attorney. Maritime and boating accident claims can involve complex liability issues, especially when commercial operators, rental companies, or insurance providers are involved.

At Ghassemi Law Group, we will:

  • Investigate the cause of the accident

  • Determine who is legally responsible

  • Handle all communication with insurers

  • Fight for full compensation for your injuries, medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering

We offer free consultations and work on a contingency fee basis, so you pay nothing unless we win your case.

FAQ

At Ghassemi Law Group, we specialize in representing individuals injured in car accidents, motorcycle accidents, truck accidents, slip and falls, and other personal injury cases. Our goal is to fight for your rights and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
Our firm is built on personal experience with injury recovery. Having suffered a catastrophic spine injury myself, I deeply understand the struggles of pain and rehabilitation. This firsthand knowledge drives my commitment to securing justice for injured clients.
At Ghassemi Law Group, we work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay anything upfront. We only get paid if we win your case, ensuring there’s no financial risk to seeking legal representation.
If you’ve been injured in an accident, seek medical attention immediately, document the scene with photos, gather witness information, and avoid making statements to insurance companies without legal guidance. Contact us as soon as possible for a free consultation.
In California, the statute of limitations for most personal injury cases is two years from the date of the accident. However, certain exceptions may apply. It’s crucial to act quickly to ensure you don’t lose your right to pursue compensation.