St. Louis Boat Accident Lawyers
Boating should be fun and safe, but when an accident happens, the consequences can be devastating. If you or a loved one was injured in a boating accident, Count on Cantor Injury Law’s St. Louis boat accident lawyers to help you recover the compensation you deserve.
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Missouri Boat Accident Attorneys
Boating accidents can turn a day of fun on the water into a devastating tragedy. Whether caused by reckless boat operations, intoxicated drivers, speeding, mechanical failures, or failure to follow safety laws, these accidents often result in serious injuries or even fatalities.
At Cantor Injury Law, we have the experience and resources to hold negligent boaters accountable and fight for the compensation you deserve. If you or a loved one has been injured in a boating accident, contact us today for a free consultation—You can Count on Cantor.
Missouri & Illinois – A Boating Paradise
Boaters across Missouri and Illinois enjoy spending time on the many lakes and rivers that make these states prime destinations for water recreation. From the Missouri and Illinois Rivers to popular lakes like Lake of the Ozarks, Table Rock Lake, Mark Twain Lake, Carlyle Lake, and Rend Lake, these waterways attract thousands of boaters each year.
With so much boating activity, especially during the warmer months, the risk of accidents caused by negligent boat operators increases. Reckless or impaired boaters ignore safety protocols, putting others at serious risk.
cOMMON cAUSES OF bOAT aCCIDENTS
Many negligent behaviors can cause boating accidents, but the U.S. Coast Guard reports the following as the most significant reasons boating accidents occur:
- Operator inattention: Boat operators must stay alert, just like vehicle drivers, and avoid texting, drinking alcohol, or operating while fatigued.
- Excessive speed: Just as with driving, boat operators must adhere to reasonable speed limit regulations to prevent accidents.
- Improper lookout: A boat operator is negligent if they fail to navigate their vessel responsibly around other traffic. Operators must heed posted restrictions and watch for the presence of hazards for the safety of others.
- Intoxicated operator: Boating under the influence (BUI) is just as illegal as drunk driving. If an intoxicated boater caused your injuries, you can pursue a civil lawsuit—even if criminal charges are filed.
- Reckless boating: Includes weaving through congested waterways, speeding over waves, boating at night, or entering restricted swim areas.
The Most Common Injuries Sustained In Boat Accidents:
Back & Spinal Cord Injuries
Arm & Leg Injuries
Whiplash
Paralysis
Boating Laws in Missouri
In Missouri, boating is a popular activity, and it’s essential to be aware of the state’s boating laws to guarantee safety and compliance.
If another boat owner’s negligence caused your accident, we will help you secure the compensation you deserve.
- Age Requirement: Must be 14 or older to operate a boat or personal watercraft (PWC) unless supervised.
- Life Jackets: Required for all; children under 7 must wear one at all times unless in an enclosed area.
- Fire Extinguishers: Mandatory on motorboats based on size.
- Sound Devices: Boats 16+ feet need a horn or whistle; 40+ feet need a bell as well.
- Speed Limits: Max 30 mph from half an hour after sunset to an hour before sunrise.
- No Wake Zones: Operate at slow-no wake speed within 100 feet of docks, piers, anchored boats, or restricted areas.
- Navigation Lights: Required from sunset to sunrise and during low visibility.
- Boating Under the Influence (BUI): Strictly prohibited with severe penalties.
We Fight For You!
St. Louis Boat Accident Lawyers FAQS
Liability depends on the circumstances of the crash. The boat operator may be responsible if they were reckless, intoxicated, or ignored boating laws. Other factors, such as defective boat parts, improper maintenance, or unsafe waterway conditions, could also contribute. We thoroughly investigate your case to determine all liable parties and fight for your compensation.
Boating under the influence (BUI) is illegal in Missouri and Illinois, just like drunk driving. If the boater who caused the accident was impaired, they may face criminal charges, but you can still file a civil claim for compensation. We can use police reports, witness statements, and toxicology results to strengthen your case.
If the at-fault boater doesn’t have insurance, you may still be able to recover compensation through:
✔ Your own boating or personal insurance policy
✔ A negligence lawsuit against the responsible party
✔ Other liable parties, such as a rental company or manufacturer
We will explore every possible option to secure your compensation.
Most boating accident cases settle out of court through negotiations with insurance companies. However, if a fair settlement isn’t offered, we are fully prepared to take your case to trial and fight aggressively on your behalf.
If a child was operating the boat at the time of the accident, liability may fall on the adult who allowed them to drive. Missouri law requires boat operators to be at least 14 years old to legally operate a vessel without supervision.
If a boating accident leads to a fatality, the victim’s family may have grounds to file a wrongful death lawsuit against the responsible party. These cases can arise due to operator negligence, boating under the influence (BUI), reckless driving, defective boat equipment, or failure to follow boating laws. At Cantor Injury Law, we understand that no amount of money can replace a loved one, but holding the negligent party accountable can provide justice and financial security for your family.
Don’t Go Through This Alone!
Boating accidents can cause serious injuries, financial burdens, and emotional distress, especially when they result from reckless operation.
At Cantor Injury Law, we have the experience and resources to investigate the accident, determine liability, and fight for the maximum compensation you deserve.
We handle everything—from gathering evidence and negotiating with insurance companies to taking your case to trial if necessary. Whether you were injured as a boater, passenger, swimmer, or due to a negligent rental company. Count on Cantor to protect your rights and hold the responsible parties accountable.