Boating accidents. They can be terrifying out on the water, especially if you do not have a lot of experience on a boat.
On top of potential loss of life, there is possible property damage that goes along with it. In 2021, there was $67.5 million in property damages caused by boating accidents.
So, if you get involved in a boating accident in Tennessee, what actions do you need to take? This guide will show you the first things that you need to do.
Call the Authorities
The first thing that you need to do is call the proper authorities to report this boating accident. This is especially urgent if you need any immediate medical assistance or assistance with getting everybody on the boat back on land.
There are certain situations where the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency makes this mandatory.
One of those times is when there is a death or a missing person involved. Another situation is when there is serious medical treatment required. These incidents need to be reported to the Resources Agency within 48 hours.
Exchanging Information
The next thing that you need to do is get the proper information about this accident. This typically means gathering the names and contact information of everybody that was on your boat.
If there was more than one boat involved in this accident, then you need names and contact information of everybody on that boat as well. On top of this, you should get information about the boat itself.
That will help you be able to file an appropriate report about the incident and make contact with everybody involved available if further action is required.
Making an Insurance Claim
Once you do everything above, it is time to file an insurance claim for your boating accident. Here, you can hope to get the coverage that you need for the funds it will take to fix your boat or even cover your medical bills.
Depending on what insurance you have, this may not be the easiest task. Some insurance companies may be resistant to giving you the coverage that you need if they can find the slightest fault on your end. Others have clever wording in their contracts to not cover you for certain boating incidents.
Make sure that you have a good understanding of your options before going further.
Hire an Accident Lawyer for Your Boating Accident
If filing an insurance claim does not work, it may be time to hire an accident lawyer for your boating accident. Taking steps such as contacting the proper authorities and gather the information needed for future contact is a step in the right direction for this.
It can make a potential case stronger by following the proper instructions. Then, from there, you and your lawyer can discuss what options you have.
Are you ready to file a claim? Schedule a free consultation with our Memphis office today.