Boating is a way of life in Louisiana. With miles of bayous, lakes, and access to the Gulf Coast, residents and visitors alike spend countless days on the water. But boating comes with risks, and when accidents happen, they can leave victims facing devastating injuries, financial losses, and emotional trauma. If you or a loved one has been hurt in a boating, jet ski or other maritime accident, the Lafayette boating accident attorneys at Brandt & Sherman are here to help. We know Louisiana’s boating laws and we have the experience to hold negligent parties accountable.

Common Causes of Boating Accidents in Louisiana

The U.S. Coast Guard reports that most boating accidents are preventable and stem from operator error or negligence. In Louisiana, some of the most frequent causes include:

• Operator inexperience: Many Louisiana boaters lack formal training, making it easy to misjudge speed, distance, or water conditions.
• Alcohol use: Boating under the influence (BUI) is one of the leading causes of crashes on the water.
• Speeding: High speeds reduce reaction time and increase the risk of collisions.
• Improper lookout: Failure to watch for other vessels, swimmers, or obstacles is a major factor in boating wrecks.
• Inclement weather: Sudden storms, rough waters, or strong winds can quickly create dangerous conditions.
• Equipment failure: Defective or poorly maintained parts — such as steering systems or engines — can cause serious accidents, often leading to product liability claims.

At Brandt & Sherman, we investigate every detail of an accident to hold negligent parties accountable and pursue maximum recovery for our clients.

Common Injuries After Boating Accidents

Because boats lack the protections of cars or trucks, injuries on the water are often severe. Victims may suffer:

• Broken bones
• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
• Spinal cord injuries or paralysis
• Severe lacerations or amputations from propellers
• Drowning or near-drowning injuries
• Burn injuries from onboard fires or explosions

These injuries often require extensive treatment and can permanently alter a victim’s quality of life. Families facing the loss of a loved one may also pursue a wrongful death claim to hold negligent parties responsible. Our team works with medical experts to calculate the true cost of care and fight for full compensation.

Who Can Be Held Liable for a Boating Accident?

Determining liability in a boating accident often requires a detailed investigation. Multiple parties may share responsibility, including:

• Boat operators who acted negligently, such as speeding or boating under the influence.
• Boat owners who failed to maintain their vessel or allowed unqualified operators.
• Manufacturers if a design or equipment defect caused the accident.
• Rental companies that provided unsafe boats or inadequate safety instructions.
• Passengers whose reckless behavior contributed to the accident.

At Brandt & Sherman, we investigate every angle to ensure all responsible parties are held accountable.

Steps to Take After a Boating Accident in Louisiana

Knowing what to do after a boating accident can protect your health and your claim. Take these steps as soon as possible: 1. Seek medical attention Even if you feel fine or your injuries seem minor, get checked by a doctor immediately. Boating accidents often cause internal injuries, concussions, or other conditions that aren’t obvious right away. Medical records also create important documentation that links your injuries to the accident. 2. Report the accident In Louisiana, many boating accidents must be reported to the Louisiana Department of Wildlife & Fisheries or local authorities. Filing an official report ensures the incident is on record and can be used later as evidence in your claim. 3. Document the scene If it’s safe to do so, take photos and videos of the boats involved, water and weather conditions, property damage, and visible injuries. This evidence can be invaluable in proving negligence or unsafe conditions. 4. Gather witness information Collect names and contact details of anyone who saw the accident. Witness testimony can help confirm how the crash happened, especially if liability is disputed. 5. Contact an attorney quickly A boating accident lawyer can investigate the accident, preserve key evidence, and make sure all legal deadlines are met. Insurance companies often act fast to minimize payouts, so having an attorney early on helps level the playing field.

Compensation Available After a Boating Accident

The value of your case depends on the severity of your injuries and the long-term impact on your life. Compensation may include:

• Medical expenses (current and future)
• Lost wages and reduced earning ability
• Pain and suffering
• Property damage (boat or personal items)
• Funeral expenses and loss of companionship in fatal accidents

Our team works to maximize recovery so you and your family can focus on healing.

Louisiana & Federal Laws That Affect Boating Accidents

Boating accident claims in Louisiana are usually handled under state negligence law. This means that if another party’s careless or reckless actions caused your injuries, you may be entitled to compensation. In most cases, victims have one year from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit under Louisiana Civil Code Article 3492. However, starting July 1, 2024, the deadline will extend to two years for accidents occurring after that date. Acting quickly is critical, because missing these deadlines can permanently bar your right to recover damages. Some boating accidents also fall under federal maritime laws, especially if they involve commercial vessels or offshore activity. For example, the Jones Act allows qualifying seamen to seek compensation if their injuries were caused by an employer’s negligence or an unseaworthy vessel. Similarly, the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act provides benefits to certain maritime workers, even without proving fault, though the damages available may be more limited than under the Jones Act. Because both Louisiana state law and federal maritime law may apply, determining the right legal path can be complex. An experienced Lafayette boating accident lawyer can evaluate your situation, explain which laws apply, and make sure your claim is filed correctly and on time. These cases often overlap with offshore accident claims, especially when commercial vessels, oil rigs, or maritime workers are involved.

How a Lafayette Boating Accident Lawyer Can Help

After a boating accident, the legal process can be overwhelming, especially when insurers and opposing attorneys are already working against you. Our attorneys will:

• Investigate the cause of the accident and identify liable parties.
• Negotiate with insurers who often try to undervalue or deny claims.
• File a lawsuit if necessary and fight for full compensation in court.

At Brandt & Sherman, we’ve been fighting for Louisiana injury victims for decades, and we don’t get paid unless we win.