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Legal Representation for Boating Accident Victims
Boating is supposed to be about fun, family, and recreation. But when boat operators act carelessly, a day on the water can end in disaster.
Unlike car accidents, boating crashes often occur far from immediate medical care, and victims may face life-threatening injuries before help arrives.
At The Law Offices of Matthew M. Vincent, we know boating accidents are often caused by negligence and poor judgment—not “freak accidents.”
Whether the boating crash involved alcohol, inexperience, or reckless operation, Matthew M. Vincent is an experienced boating accident attorney who stands up for victims and their families, fighting to prove fault, challenge insurance company tactics, and pursue full compensation.
When you hire Matthew, you get Matthew. He limits his caseload so he can personally oversee each boating accident case from start to finish—so your case is built as strongly as possible for success.
99% Win Success Rate & Over $40 Million Recovered for Personal Injury Clients
What To Do After a Boating Accident
If you’ve been injured in a boating crash, the steps you take immediately after can make a major difference in your claim:
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Get medical attention immediately. Even if injuries seem minor, water-related trauma can worsen quickly.
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Report the accident. Depending on the circumstances, report the accident to local law enforcement or the U.S. Coast Guard.
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Document the scene. If possible, take photos of the boat, water conditions, and any visible injuries.
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Collect witness information. Statements from passengers and nearby boaters may help prove negligence.
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Do not give recorded statements to insurance adjusters. They may twist your words to minimize your claim.
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Contact an experienced boating accident lawyer. Matthew M. Vincent knows how to build strong cases for boat accident victims.
Learn more in our FAQ section or contact us for a free consultation.
Types of Boating Accident Cases We Handle
Boating accidents can happen in countless ways—from collisions on crowded lakes to rental watercraft mishaps and marina liability claims. Matthew M. Vincent has helped clients in boating accident cases, including:
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Collisions between recreational boats
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Accidents caused by alcohol or drug impairment
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Speeding and reckless operation
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Watercraft rental accidents (jet skis, pontoons...)
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Overloaded or improperly equipped boats
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Mechanical failures due to poor maintenance
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Commercial vessel or tour boat accidents
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Drowning and near-drowning incidents
Boating accidents can overlap with wrongful death claims when crashes are fatal, or with car accident cases when boats are trailered on highways.
Common Boating Accident Injuries
Because boats lack the protective features of cars, victims often suffer catastrophic injuries, including:
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Traumatic brain injuries (from impact or oxygen loss)
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Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
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Severe fractures and crushed bones
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Propeller lacerations and amputations
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Drowning or hypoxic brain injury
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Internal organ damage
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Fatal injuries leading to wrongful death claims
Families coping with life-changing injuries may also benefit from our Spouse & Family Damages and Wrongful Death resources.
How Matthew M. Vincent Protects Boat Accident Victims
Boating accident claims can be complicated. They may involve federal regulations, marina liability, or overlapping insurance coverage. Matthew helps by:
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Proving liability: Investigating negligence, vessel condition, and compliance with boat safety laws.
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Challenging insurance tactics: Holding insurers accountable when they deny/underpay claims.
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Maximizing your compensation: Pursuing damages for medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and long-term care needs.
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Personal involvement: Because Matthew limits his caseload, every client receives his direct attention and representation.
With his focused advocacy and proven results, you can face the future confidently, knowing your boating accident claim is in trusted hands.
Causes of Boating Accidents and the Compensation You May Recover
Many boating accidents are not random mishaps—they’re the result of preventable negligence on the water. Common causes include boating under the influence (BUI), distracted operation such as texting or talking with passengers, excessive speed, and inexperience behind the wheel.
Mechanical failures, overcrowded boats, and hazardous weather or water conditions also play a role in many crashes. Establishing the true cause is critical, since it proves negligence and counters the myth that boating accidents are simply “part of the risk” of being on the water.
When negligence is established, victims may be entitled to a wide range of compensation. This can include medical bills from emergency medical treatment, hospitalization, surgeries, and rehabilitation; lost wages and diminished earning capacity; pain and suffering; and property damage.
Families who lose a loved one to a boating accident may be able to pursue wrongful death claims for funeral costs, lost financial support, and the emotional toll of their loss, along with spouse and family damages.
By identifying the cause of the accident and documenting the extent of its impact, Matthew M. Vincent builds compelling cases that hold negligent parties accountable and seek the maximum compensation available.
Serving Clients Across Texas & California
With offices in Weatherford and Temecula, Matthew M. Vincent represents boating accident victims across the Dallas–Fort Worth metro and the Inland Empire region of California.
Many boating accident cases can be handled virtually, so you can focus on recovery while Matthew and his team handle the legal side.
See the list of major cities we serve in Texas and California.
Frequently Asked Questions About Boating Accidents
Do I have to report a boating accident?
Yes. Both Texas and California require reporting serious boating accidents to state authorities, and in some cases, the U.S. Coast Guard.
What if the boat operator was drinking?
Operating a boat under the influence (BUI) is illegal. If alcohol was involved, Matthew can use that evidence to strengthen your case.
Can rental companies be held liable for accidents?
Yes. If a boat rental company failed to maintain equipment or allowed an unsafe rental, they may share responsibility.
What if my loved one drowned in a boating accident?
Families may pursue a wrongful death claim to recover damages for funeral expenses, lost income, and emotional suffering.
How long do I have to file a claim?
For more questions, visit our full FAQ page.
No fees unless we win. 100% confidential. Quick response guaranteed.
Schedule Your Free Consultation with a Boating Accident Lawyer
If you or a loved one has been injured in a boating accident, don’t wait to get help. Evidence can disappear quickly, and insurance companies act fast to reduce payouts. Call 1-855-893-7500 or complete our contact form below.
Call The Law Offices of Matthew M. Vincent today to schedule a free consultation. We’ll listen to your story, explain your options, and fight for the justice you deserve.