Boating is a popular way to enjoy the many lakes and rivers in Madison, WI. But when a fun day on the water turns tragic, the aftermath can be devastating. Boating accidents can lead to serious injuries, financial hardship, and even death.
If you or a loved one has been hurt in an accident on the water, you need a legal team that understands the complex laws surrounding these cases. The Madison boating accident lawyers at Eisenberg Law Offices, S.C. have over 140 years of combined experience and have recovered over $100 million for injured clients across Wisconsin.
Call our Madison personal injury attorneys at (608) 256-8356 to schedule a free consultation and learn more.
How Can Eisenberg Law Offices, S.C. Help After a Boating Accident in Madison
When dealing with the stress of a boating accident, the last thing you want to worry about is a legal battle. That’s where our Madison boating accident attorneys come in. Eisenberg Law Offices, S.C. will handle all aspects of your case, from start to finish. We’ll be your trusted advisors and fierce advocates every step of the way.
Here’s how our Madison personal injury lawyers can help:
- Investigating the facts: We’ll launch a thorough investigation into the accident. We’ll gather evidence, such as accident reports, witness statements, and photos or videos from the scene. We may also work with accident reconstruction experts to understand exactly what happened.
- Determining fault: Proving who was at fault is crucial. We’ll identify all responsible parties, which could include the boat operator, the boat owner, a boat manufacturer, or even a rental company.
- Calculating damages: We’ll work to get a full picture of your losses. This includes not just medical bills and lost wages but also future medical needs, pain and suffering, and other non-economic damages.
- Negotiating with insurance companies: Insurance companies often try to settle for the lowest possible amount. We know their tactics and will negotiate aggressively on your behalf to secure a fair settlement.
- Litigating if necessary: If a fair settlement can’t be reached, we are fully prepared to take your case to court. Our trial lawyers have a strong track record of success in the courtroom.
You don’t have to face the aftermath of a boating incident in Madison, Wisconsin, alone. Call us to schedule a free consultation.
How Common Are Boating Accidents in Wisconsin?
Boating accidents are more common than you might think.
The U.S. Coast Guard keeps track of recreational boating accidents nationwide, and according to their 2024 report, Wisconsin saw:
- 104 accidents total
- 93 accidents that resulted in injuries
- 11 accidents that resulted in deaths
These numbers show that while boating is a great pastime, it also carries real risks. In 2024, 14 people died in Wisconsin as a result of a boating accident. Many of these accidents and injuries could have been prevented.
What Causes Boating Accidents in Madison?
Most boating accidents are the result of human error or negligence. Just like drivers, boat operators have a duty to operate their vessels safely. When they fail to do so, people get hurt.
Here are some of the most common causes of boating accidents:
- Operator inexperience
- Boating under the influence
- Operator inattention
- Excessive speed
- Improper lookout
- Mechanical failure
- Weather conditions
No matter what caused your crash, our Wisconsin boating accident attorneys will find the cause and determine who could be held liable for your damages.
What Type of Damages Are Available to Boating Accident Victims?
Damages can be divided into two main types: economic and non-economic.
Economic damages are the financial losses that are easy to calculate and may include:
- Medical bills (past, present, and future)
- Lost wages
- Loss of earning capacity
- Property damage, like damage to your boat
Non-economic damages are less tangible losses. Putting a dollar amount on them can be harder, but they are just as real.
They include:
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Disfigurement or scarring
- Loss of enjoyment of life
In some rare cases, if the at-fault boater’s actions were particularly reckless or malicious, a court may also award punitive damages. These are meant to punish the wrongdoer and discourage similar behavior in the future.
How Long Do I Have to File a Lawsuit After a Boating Accident in Wisconsin?
For most personal injury cases, including those involving boating accidents, you typically have three years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit.
Exceptions can shorten this deadline depending on certain facts in your case, so it’s important to act quickly. If you miss this deadline, you may lose your right to sue forever, no matter how strong your case is. Contacting a lawyer soon after the accident gives them the time they need to investigate and build a strong case for you.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a boating accident, you don’t have to go through this difficult time alone. The legal team at Eisenberg Law Offices, S.C. is here to help. We offer a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your case and answer your questions. There is no fee for our services unless we win your case.
Call our Madison boating accident lawyers today to schedule your free consultation. Let us put our experience to work for you.