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Boating Accidents

What should I do immediately after a boating accident?

Call emergency services, ensure everyone's safety, document the scene with photos, and exchange contact information. Do not admit liability before speaking to a lawyer.

Is boat insurance mandatory in Georgia?

Liability insurance is mandatory for commercial vessels. For private recreational boats, it is not strictly required by law but is highly recommended.

Who is liable in a collision between two boats?

Liability is apportioned based on fault. If both vessels are at fault, damages are divided in proportion to the degree of each vessel's fault.

How can a lawyer help with a jet ski accident?

A lawyer can help prove negligence on the part of the rental company (e.g., poor maintenance) or another operator, helping you recover medical costs.

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Introduction: Boating Accidents and Legal Liability

Georgia's coastline and inland waters are actively used for both commercial and recreational boating. Unfortunately, with the increase in maritime traffic, the number of maritime incidents and boating accidents is also rising. This includes collisions, groundings, fires, injuries caused by jet skis, and other mishaps. A boating accident is accompanied by complex legal processes: determining the culprit, assessing damages, obtaining insurance payouts, and sometimes criminal liability. In such times, the assistance of a specialized lawyer who understands the nuances of maritime law is critical. Legal.ge connects you with experts who will protect your rights, whether it be claiming compensation or defending against charges.

What Does Boating Accident Service Cover?

Legal.ge specialists offer full legal support in the following matters:

  • Incident Investigation and Reconstruction: Determining the causes of the accident, appointing experts, and gathering evidence.
  • Compensation for Damages: Negotiations with insurance companies and third parties to receive compensation for vessel repairs, cargo damage, or personal injury.
  • Liability Determination: Who is at fault in the collision? Establishing culpability based on an analysis of COLREG (International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea) violations.
  • Administrative and Criminal Defense: Representation in courts and investigative bodies if the client is accused of violating navigation rules.
  • Small Vessel Incidents: Legal regulation of cases involving yachts, motorboats, and scooters.

Common Scenarios and Needs

Boating accidents are diverse, and each case requires an individual approach:

  • Collision in Port: While maneuvering, a yacht collided with another vessel or port infrastructure. It is necessary to calculate damages and apportion liability.
  • Jet Ski Injury: A tourist was injured while driving a rented jet ski due to a technical malfunction or the negligence of another driver. The victim seeks reimbursement for medical expenses.
  • Vessel Damage During a Storm: A vessel was damaged in the harbor due to bad weather. The insurance company refuses to pay, claiming the owner did not take appropriate measures.
  • Passenger Injury on Board: A passenger fell overboard or was injured while riding a pleasure boat. The owner needs defense against a civil lawsuit.
  • Sinking of a Fishing Boat: An incident occurred during commercial fishing, resulting in the loss of the boat. An insurance dispute needs to be pursued.

Georgian Legal Framework

The legal regulation of boating accidents is based on the Maritime Code of Georgia (especially the chapter on vessel collisions) and the Civil Code of Georgia (tort liabilities). At the administrative level, the Administrative Offences Code of Georgia applies, which provides for fines for violations of navigation rules. Criminal liability arises under the relevant articles of the Criminal Code of Georgia (violation of traffic safety rules). Additionally, Georgia is a party to the COLREG-72 convention, which defines the rules of the road for vessels to avoid collisions at sea. The registration and inspection of small vessels are regulated by the normative acts of the Maritime Transport Agency.

Service Process Step-by-Step

In the event of an accident, lawyer involvement includes the following stages:

  1. Emergency Response and Evidence Preservation: The lawyer helps the client immediately record the incident, collect photo/video material, and interview witnesses.
  2. Note of Sea Protest: If necessary, the captain files a "Note of Protest" with a notary or consul, which is crucial evidence.
  3. Expertise and Damage Assessment: Engaging independent maritime experts to determine the technical causes of the accident and financial loss.
  4. Negotiation: Attempting to resolve the dispute through negotiation with the opposing party or insurance company.
  5. Litigation: If an agreement cannot be reached, preparing a lawsuit and providing representation in court.

Why Choose Legal.ge?

Maritime accidents differ significantly from ordinary car accidents. Specific international and local norms apply here, and ignorance of them can lead to losing a case. Legal.ge allows you to find lawyers who have experience specifically in maritime disputes. Our platform's specialists will help you obtain fair compensation and effectively defend your interests. Do not risk your property and reputation — contact professionals on Legal.ge.

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