Skip to content
St. Joseph, Michigan Boating Accident Lawyer
St. Joseph, Michigan, offers ample opportunities for recreation and relaxation on the water for visitors and residents alike. Whether fishing, sailing, canoeing, kayaking, or taking a rental boat out for a leisurely afternoon, there is no shortage of activities on the city’s lakefront and waterways.
But not everyone is an experienced sailor or boat operator. Not everyone at a vessel’s helm acts responsibly, follows applicable safety rules, or maintains their boat appropriately. And not everyone is prepared for the shifting and sometimes volatile conditions that can arise on Lake Michigan.
The above can and do result in boating accidents that cause serious injuries and even fatalities. When a vessel’s owner or operator’s negligent and reckless actions lead to such losses, victims can hold those parties responsible and seek compensation that can help them recover.
At Sommers Schwartz, we represent those who suffer because of others’ irresponsibility on the water. We know the upheaval that follows a severe injury or loss of a loved one. We understand the physical, financial, practical, and emotional challenges faced by injury victims and fight tirelessly to get our clients the resources and compensation they need and deserve.
Causes of Boating Accidents
Michigan has a robust set of safety laws that apply to operating watercraft on the state’s lakes and waterways. These laws, along with local St. Joseph ordinances, prohibit a broad range of conduct, including speeding, disobeying no-wake zones, and operating a boat under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Of course, boaters, like vehicle drivers, do not always comply with the laws designed to protect themselves and others.
Whether violating the law or not, a wide range of negligent acts or omissions can lead to a boating accident, including:
- Inexperienced boat operators
- Operating under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Negligent boat maintenance
- Defective boat equipment
- Inadequate boat maintenance
- Excessive speed
- Distracted boating
- Operating without a license
Types of Boating Accidents
Sommers Schwartz represents boating accident injury victims no matter the cause, nature, or degree of their injuries. This includes seeking compensation for those injured in:
- Propeller Accidents
- Run-over Accidents
- Overboard Accidents
- Drowning Accidents
- Slips and Falls on a Vessel
- Crew Member Accidents
- Water-skiing Accidents
Boating Accident Injuries
In the wake of an accident, the individuals on the boat may suffer injuries. In some boating accidents, individuals in the water or on another vessel can sustain injuries.
The most common injuries sustained in boating accidents include:
- Broken bones
- Fractures
- Head injuries
- Brain injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal injuries
- Amputations
- Disfigurement
- Drowning
Injured in a Boating Accident in St. Joseph? Call Sommers Schwartz Today for a Free Consultation
If a boat accident in or around St. Joseph, Michigan, has caused injuries or the loss of a loved one, Sommers Schwartz can help. With experience, fierce advocacy, and a deep understanding of the unique issues involved in boating accidents, our personal injury attorneys will fight to get you what you deserve after an accident on the water. Contact Sommers Schwartz today at (866) 942-0101 for a free consultation to discuss your case.
We fight hard. And we win.
News & Case Alerts
Read related articles and learn about recently filed cases.
Our attorneys have been featured on local and national media outlets, including:
A Client Talks about Andy Dragovic
My wife had an accident, tripping over a cable line that wasn’t buried. Andy represented us and were very pleased with the outcome. Andy was very professional, personable, and quick to respond to us, answering any of our questions or concerns. The whole firm was responsive to our concerns, and…
Praise for Dina Zalewski
The lawyers at Sommers Schwartz, P.C. were nothing short of amazing when I came to them with my medical malpractice case! Dina truly helped to put my mind at ease and because of her and her firm, I finally have closure and can begin my healing process! I just want…
Gratitude for Rob Sickels
When our world was shattered by an unexpected medical diagnosis, we were referred to Rob Sickels of Sommers Schwartz. What a blessing to get this referral as Rob listened to us with caring and compassion, spent all the time necessary to help us, was always honest with us about our…
A Grateful Client Talks About Dina Zalewski
Dina never lied to us and was very straightforward. I feel like she took me under her wing. She got me through something that I thought was going to be incredibly difficult for me to relive. Dina felt like a friend, somebody I could trust and look to for guidance….
About Dina Zaleski, Rick Groffsky, and Andy Dragovic
Dina, Rick, and Andy were amazing lawyers. They helped me through an incredibly difficult time in my life after losing my son. I wanted answers on why, and they helped me through the whole process and they got me answers. After I lost my son, I was severely depressed. Every…
A Medical Malpractice Client Recommends Matt Turner
Matt Turner and his whole staff have acted very professionally, respectfully, and responsively to my every need. I highly recommend him to represent you in any legal matter you may have. Thank you again for all your help and guidance.
We are so thankful this firm was recommended to us!
Robert Sickels and his whole team went above and beyond while caring for us, They truly go the extra mile.
After our first meeting with attorney Matt Curtis, our feelings of frustration, defeat, and helplessness were diminished.
Matt’s knowledge of the law concerning medical malpractice and his compassion for my husband’s situation gave us the boost we needed to stand up and be heard! I am so grateful that my husband felt validated and energized throughout his time meeting with Mr. Curtis because, in February of 2021, he…
Our Clients Say It Best
