Boating accidents can turn a day of relaxation on Houston’s waterways into a devastating tragedy. At Daly & Black, P.C., our Houston boating accident lawyers are relentless in fighting for the compensation you need to recover, rebuild, and move forward.
When negligence causes a boating accident, victims deserve aggressive legal representation that refuses to settle for less than full justice.
Whether your injury occurred on Lake Conroe, Galveston Bay, or another Texas waterway, we know what it takes to win—and we are ready to go all in, all the time, for you.
Get in touch and schedule a free consultation now.
Understanding Boating Accidents in Houston
Houston’s proximity to a wide range of inland lakes, bays, and rivers makes boating a year-round pastime. Popular spots like Galveston Bay, Clear Lake, and Lake Houston see thousands of boaters annually. Unfortunately, more boats on the water mean more accidents.
According to Texas Parks and Wildlife, boating accidents in Texas continue to present serious dangers. From January to April 2021 alone, boating fatalities in Texas rose by 40% compared to the same period the previous year.
Nationally, the Coast Guard reported over 4,000 boating accidents in 2019, resulting in more than 600 deaths and $55 million in property damage. Operator inattention, improper lookout, operator inexperience, excessive speed, and alcohol use consistently rank among the leading causes of accidents.
Troublingly, 70% of boating deaths occurred where the operator had not received formal safety instruction, and 79% of fatal victims drowned—with 86% of those drowning victims not wearing life jackets.
When careless behavior results in injuries or fatalities, the victims deserve powerful legal action.
If You Are Involved in a Boating Accident, What Is the First Thing You Must Do?
The first priority after a boating accident is to render aid to anyone injured or in danger. Under Texas law, boat operators involved in an accident must immediately:
- Stop their vessel at the scene.
- Assist anyone needing help, as long as doing so doesn’t endanger their own vessel or passengers.
- Exchange names, addresses, and registration information.
- Report accidents involving death, disappearance, serious injury, or major property damage to law enforcement or the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department.
Failing to fulfill these duties can lead to criminal penalties. Immediate action protects lives—and preserves your right to pursue compensation later.
Learn more about Texas boating accident laws here.
Liability on Inland Waters vs. Open Ocean
Where a boating accident occurs—whether on inland waters like lakes and rivers or on the open ocean—significantly affects which laws apply. Inland water accidents are generally governed by Texas state law, applying familiar negligence principles and shorter statutes of limitations.
Accidents that occur on the open ocean or navigable federal waters often fall under federal maritime law, which involves different standards for proving negligence, a broader range of recoverable damages, and longer deadlines to file a claim.
Inland Waters: Governed by Texas State Law
- Statute of Limitations: Texas Civil Practice & Remedies Code §16.003 requires victims to file a lawsuit within two years of the injury date.
- Safety Regulations: Texas Parks & Wildlife Code Chapter 31 (the Water Safety Act) regulates boating operations, safety equipment, accident reporting, and BUI laws. Violations can be used as evidence in court.
- Comparative Fault: Under Chapter 33, Texas uses a modified comparative fault system. Victims can still recover damages if they are no more than 50% at fault, but their compensation is reduced by their percentage of fault.
Open Ocean: Governed by Federal Maritime Law
- The Jones Act (46 U.S.C. §30104) shapes negligence standards in maritime claims.
- The Death on the High Seas Act (46 U.S.C. §30301) applies to wrongful death claims more than three nautical miles offshore, allowing only financial (pecuniary) losses.
- Statute of Limitations: 46 U.S.C. §30106 requires maritime claims to be filed within three years of the accident date.
Who Is Liable in a Boating Accident?
Determining fault after a boating accident requires a detailed investigation. Liable parties may include:
- Boat operators who acted negligently.
- Vessel owners who failed to maintain their boats.
- Rental companies that provided unsafe equipment.
- Manufacturers of defective boating components.
Common Injuries from Boating Accidents
The physical toll of a boating accident can be catastrophic. Common injuries include:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) from impact or oxygen deprivation.
- Spinal cord injuries resulting in paralysis.
- Drownings and near-drowning incidents.
- Lacerations and amputations from propeller strikes.
- Broken bones, burns, and internal injuries.
Survivors often face extensive medical treatment, long-term rehabilitation, and emotional trauma. Pursuing full compensation is critical to securing your future.
The Daly & Black Difference
At Daly & Black, P.C., we know that a boating accident can leave your life turned upside down. When injuries happen on the water, you need a law firm that understands the complex rules of both state and maritime law—and isn’t afraid to fight for every dollar you deserve. Our Houston boating accident lawyers are prepared to act decisively and aggressively on your behalf.
Aggressive Advocacy
Daly & Black is known for confronting negligent operators and insurers head-on. We move quickly to investigate the accident, preserve critical evidence, and build strong cases that are ready for trial if necessary. Our reputation for no-nonsense representation often leads to better settlement offers—but we’re always ready to go to court.
Specialized Legal Knowledge
Boating accidents aren’t like car crashes. They involve specialized regulations, maritime principles, and jurisdictional challenges. Our attorneys bring extensive experience to these cases, ensuring every legal advantage is used to protect your rights and pursue maximum compensation.
No Fees Unless We Win
You don’t pay us anything unless we recover money for you. Our contingency fee structure ensures access to premier legal representation without the burden of upfront costs or hourly rates.
Personal Service, Powerful Results
At Daly & Black, you’re more than a case file. We stay in close contact, ensuring you understand your options and feel supported every step of the way. Your recovery is our mission—and we are ALL IN until the job is done.
If you’ve been injured in a boating accident, don’t leave your future to chance. Contact Daly & Black, P.C. today for a free consultation and let us fight for the compensation you deserve.
FAQ
Q: Who is responsible for a boating accident in Houston?
A: Liability typically falls on the negligent party—often the boat operator, but potentially the vessel owner, rental company, or manufacturer. Our attorneys investigate every angle to identify all responsible parties.
Q: What types of injuries are common in boating accidents?
A: Serious injuries include traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, propeller lacerations, drownings, and orthopedic fractures.
Q: How can a Houston boating accident lawyer help my case?
A: A Houston boating accident lawyer protects your rights, gathers crucial evidence, negotiates with insurers, and fights for full compensation in court if necessary.
Turn the Tide in Your Favor
A boating accident can leave you feeling overwhelmed—but you don’t have to face it alone. With Daly & Black, you have a powerhouse team that’s ALL IN for your recovery.
Contact a Houston boating accident lawyer today and let us fight for the compensation and justice you deserve.