Maritime Injuries Related to Defective Boat Design
Whether people work on a boat or use one for recreational activities, they have the right to expect that the vessel will be safe. Federal laws mandate that any ship in operation must be seaworthy, meaning it can safely operate as intended.
Unfortunately, just as automobiles are sometimes released to the public with defects, there are boats on the water with design flaws. Defects in boat design can result in accidents and personal injuries. Individuals in the Houston, TX, and surrounding areas who have suffered from maritime injuries related to a defective boat design can work with maritime attorney Michael E. Shelton to seek financial compensation for resulting damages.
Common Boat Design Defects
A boat design defect can refer to any flaw in the way a boat is designed or built, or any design flaw in boating equipment that affects the vessel’s ability to operate safely. Boat design defects can cause direct injuries, or they can contribute to boating accidents that result in injuries and other losses.
A boat consists of many parts and numerous complex systems. A flaw in any of these areas can compromise boat safety and increase the risk of maritime injuries. Some of the most common types of boat design defects include:
- Faulty electrical systems
- Defective battery chargers
- Design flaws within the engine
- Fuel system defects
- Faulty navigational equipment
- Exhaust system defects
- Unsafe railing or lines
- Defective steering system
Liability for Boat Design Defects
If a boat design defect results in injuries, the victim has the right to seek financial compensation for resulting losses. However, injury victims are often unsure of who is responsible for the injuries.
Defective boat design lawsuits generally fall under one of three categories:
- Product liability claims against a manufacturer for a defective vessel or a defective piece of equipment
- Contractual and implied-in-law warranty claims against the manufacturer or seller of a vessel with defective equipment
- Claims against an insurance company for proceeds under the marine insurance policy
Attorney Michael E. Shelton has represented many victims of maritime injuries. He and his team will gather evidence to determine the cause of accidents and injuries so that the right type of lawsuit can be filed, and appropriate parties can be held responsible for damages suffered by our Houston clients.
Damages for Maritime Injuries
The type and amount of damages that are awarded in a maritime injury lawsuit are dependent on the injuries incurred and the extent of additional losses. Although each case is unique, victims of maritime injuries are generally compensated for:
- Past and future medical expenses
- Property damage
- Lost wages and a loss of wage-earning potential
- Pain and suffering
Michael Shelton will consider all potential avenues of loss and will fight to collect the maximum compensation allowed by the law.
Get in Touch
If you’ve been injured in a maritime accident, attorney Michael E. Shelton can help you explore your right to financial compensation. Send us a message at your earliest convenience to discuss the details of your case, or call us in Houston at (713) 807-0700 to schedule a personal consultation.
