The Longest-Established Yuma Personal Injury Law Firm

When A Fun Day Out On The Water Lands You In The Hospital

Escaping the heat is on everyone’s mind on a hot, dry day. Unfortunately, the actions of another boater can turn a fun day into a serious injury. Boating accidents on Arizona’s lakes and rivers are far too common. The Coast Guard rates Arizona as one of the top five states for these accidents.

At The Smith Fila Law Firm, we understand boating and watercraft accidents. We can help you get the compensation you need to physically and financially recover after a serious boating accident causes you injury.

Types Of Accidents The Firm Typically Represents

Most boating accidents happen for one reason: operator error. The boat operator may be drunk or on drugs, inexperienced or reckless. Many types of watercraft and recreational equipment can be involved in boating accidents. These include Jet Skis and other personal watercraft, tubing and skiing equipment, and motorized floatation devices.

Boat owners and operators must follow registration and navigation rules. The operator must immediately stop the watercraft at the first indication of injury or right after a crash or collision. The operator must file an accident report within 48 hours of the accident if there was a fatality and within five days if there was extensive property damage or any serious injury. The families of people involved in fatal crashes and drowning victims also have recourse.

We can assist you if you were injured on a nearby body of water including:

  • The Colorado River
  • Martinez Lake
  • Senators Wash
  • Squaw Lake
  • Fisher’s Landing
  • Other water recreation areas

You may be entitled to compensation if you were injured in a boating or watercraft accident. You need to take action. In Arizona, the statute of limitations for filing a claim is two years from the date of the accident. The sooner you file, the more likely it is that evidence will be available, including witness statements and photos.

Just Visiting? An Attorney Can Help You Get Compensation.

Just visiting or working short term in the Yuma area? At The Smith Fila Law Firm, we can help you if you got seriously hurt while in the Yuma area for vacation, for work or while visiting friends or relatives. You do not need to be an Arizona resident or a U.S. citizen to file a personal injury claim. We have extensive experience with the Canadian health care system. The firm’s staff are Spanish speakers and know how to help visitors from Mexico get the care and services they need.

Utilizing An Established Network Of Providers

The Smith Fila Law Firm can help ensure you get the medical care you need. We work with a network of doctors in Phoenix and Tucson. We know that a serious injury can mean a loss of work and of income.

We also work with other experts such as economists, vocational rehabilitation specialists, engineers and accident reconstructionists. We understand what is needed to prove negligence and to win maximum compensation.

We will advocate for you from the moment we take your case until the final document is signed and your case is closed.

Ask Questions And Get Answers Today

It’s so important to understand your rights after a boating accident. You have questions, and The Smith Fila Law Firm offers a free consultation so that you can get the answers you need. We take personal injury cases on a contingency basis; this means you pay nothing unless we take your case and win a verdict or settlement for you. Located in Yuma, the firm serves clients throughout the area. Call 877-386-6038 or send an introductory email to the firm to get started.