Boating season is in full-swing in Missouri, but that also means an increase in boating accidents. Boating accidents can quickly turn serious, ending in injuries and extensive property damage – or worse. If you sustained damages after a boating accident, it’s important to understand the factors that go into building a strong case to increase your chances of recovering damages.
Accident Reports
If you are building a boating accident case, then it’s also likely that your accident meets Missouri’s requirements for accident reporting. According to Missouri law, you must report an accident to Missouri State Highway Patrol if:
- Anyone is injured
- Anyone dies as a result of the accident
- There is over $500 in damage
Regardless of the requirements, it’s always a good idea to file a report and obtain a copy for your records. If you are pursuing compensation for injuries or property damage, the report serves as critical evidence in your case. An official report will include key details like the time and date of the accident as well as any photographs of the scene.
Medical Records
Injuries happen all too often in boating accidents. If you sustained an injury, you may be entitled to compensation from the at-fault party. Your medical records are necessary to both prove that you were injured and put a dollar amount on the amount you’re owed. Documentation of a diagnosis, treatment plan, or medications prescribed are some of the evidence that’s required to build your case, but you should talk to a boating accident lawyer first to determine which evidence to submit and which to leave out.
Physical Evidence
Boating accidents result in millions of dollars of property damage nationwide. Recreational boats can be quite an investment, and repairs from an accident that wasn’t your fault aren’t easy on your wallet. If your boat sustained significant damage, you should gather physical evidence of the damage. Inspections from your insurance company, pictures and videos of the damage, and repair bills can strengthen your claim as well as serving as evidence of the other operator’s negligence. Other physical evidence, such as photos or videos of the accident and scene, are also important in establishing a case.
Witness Statements
While witness statements aren’t enough to build a strong case, they can go a long way in supporting your claim. Other evidence such as police reports and physical evidence back up witness statements, which strengthen your story and help prove that you weren’t at fault. After the accident, it’s a good idea to get a written statement from as many people as possible. The more people can back up the claim, the stronger your case will be.
Get Help With Your Missouri Boating Accident Claim
The circumstances surrounding every boating accident are very different. And only an experienced boating accident attorney can help you understand what evidence is best for your claim. Discuss your boating accident with the law team at Dreyer & Tinney, Missouri’s experienced boating accident lawyers. We are experienced attorneys who understand Missouri’s boating laws and can help you build a strong case after a boating accident. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation with Dreyer & Tinney!