Maritime Accidents

Common Types of Maritime & Boating Accidents in Delaware

Boating accidents can occur in various environments, from inland waterways to offshore operations. We handle:

Pleasure Craft Collisions

Accidents between recreational boats, jet skis, and personal watercraft due to:

• Speeding
• Operator inattention
• Alcohol use
• Failure to maintain lookout

Marina & Dock Accidents

Injuries involving:

• Slippery docks
• Boat-to-dock transitions
• Improper docking procedures
• Defective marina equipment

Boat Passenger Injuries

Including falls onboard, collisions with fixed objects, and negligent operation by the boat driver.

Jet Ski & Personal Watercraft Accidents

Often caused by inexperienced operators, reckless behavior, or high-speed maneuvers.

Commercial Maritime Accidents

For individuals working aboard:

• Fishing vessels
• Tugboats
• Barges
• Cargo vessels
• Dredging equipment

Drowning & Near-Drowning Accidents

Often caused by:

• Failure to provide life jackets
• Overboard incidents
• Improper supervision
• Carbon monoxide exposure

Capsizing & Sinking Incidents

Due to overloading, mechanical failure, or hazardous water conditions.

Whether your accident occurred during recreation or employment, our injury attorneys in Delaware are here to help.

Injuries Commonly Seen in Boating & Maritime Accidents

Boating accidents often result in severe, life-threatening injuries due to unpredictable water conditions and limited access to emergency care. Common injuries include:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
• Spinal cord injuries
• Drowning and near-drowning injuries
• Hypoxia or oxygen deprivation
• Severe lacerations
• Crush injuries
• Broken bones
• Burns from boat fires or explosions
• Carbon monoxide poisoning
• Amputations
• Back and neck trauma
• Wrongful death

These injuries may require long-term recovery and extensive medical intervention.

Most water-related accidents are caused by operator negligence, including:

Operator Inexperience

Many boaters lack proper training or understanding of navigation rules.

Alcohol Use

Boating under the influence (BUI) is illegal and a leading cause of fatal accidents.

Speeding & Reckless Operation

High speeds reduce control and increase collision risk.

Failure to Follow Navigation Rules

Ignoring channel markers, right-of-way rules, and restricted areas.

Poor Maintenance

Engine failure, steering malfunctions, or faulty electrical systems can cause serious accidents.

Weather Conditions

Operator negligence in unsafe weather may lead to preventable accidents.

Overcrowding or Overloading

Too many passengers or excessive weight can cause capsizing.

Our attorneys investigate every contributing factor to determine liability.

Who Can Be Held Liable for a Boating or Maritime Accident?

Liability depends on how and where the accident occurred. Potential responsible parties include:

1. Boat Operators

For intoxication, speeding, or negligent operation.

2. Boat Owners

Responsible for ensuring the vessel is seaworthy and properly maintained.

3. Rental Companies

For providing defective boats or failing to train renters.

4. Commercial Employers

Maritime workers may have multiple legal remedies under the Jones Act or Longshore & Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act (LHWCA).

5. Manufacturers

For defective boat parts, engines, or safety equipment.

6. Marina Operators

If unsafe docks, ramps, or facilities contributed to the accident.

We pursue claims against all liable parties to maximize compensation.

Compensation Available for Boating Accident Victims

If you were injured in a boating or maritime accident, you may be entitled to compensation for:

Economic Damages

• Medical expenses
• Surgery and hospitalization
• Rehabilitation and physical therapy
• Lost income
• Reduced earning capacity
• Property damage

Non-Economic Damages

• Pain and suffering
• Emotional trauma
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Permanent disability
• Scarring or disfigurement

Wrongful Death Damages

For families who lost a loved one in a drowning or boating incident.

Maritime Worker Compensation

Depending on the case, maritime workers may pursue:

• Jones Act claims
• LHWCA claims
• Unseaworthiness claims
• Maintenance and cure

Our attorneys analyze every appropriate pathway for financial recovery.

Delaware & Federal Laws That Affect Boating Accident Claims

Boating and maritime injury cases may involve a combination of:

Delaware State Boating Laws

Including navigation rules, alcohol restrictions, and operator safety requirements.

Federal Maritime Law

Governs injuries occurring offshore, on navigable waters, or involving commercial maritime workers.

The Jones Act

Provides compensation rights for seamen injured due to employer negligence.

LHWCA (Longshore & Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act)

Covers dock workers, shipyard employees, and harbor laborers.

Statute of Limitations

Most claims must be filed within:

• Two years for personal injury
• Three years under federal maritime law

Our firm ensures all legal deadlines and jurisdiction issues are properly addressed.

How Our Delaware Maritime Accident Lawyers Help

When you hire Schuster Jachetti LLP, we:

• Investigate the boating or maritime accident
• Collect witness statements and Coast Guard reports
• Analyze boat maintenance and operator records
• Consult maritime safety and navigation experts
• Determine whether state or federal law applies
• Handle communication with insurers, employers, and rental companies
• Calculate the full value of your claim
• Fight for maximum compensation

We handle complex maritime law so you can focus on recovery.

Speak With a Delaware Maritime & Boating Accident Lawyer Today

If you or a loved one was injured in a boating or maritime accident, you deserve experienced legal support. At Schuster Jachetti LLP, our Delaware maritime accident lawyers — including Kenneth R. Schuster, Esq. — are ready to protect your rights and pursue compensation.

Call today for a free consultation. Our team is here to help you navigate the legal waters ahead — with strength, experience, and unwavering dedication.