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Award-Winning Houston Boating Accident Attorneys

If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in a boating accident, contact our dedicated Houston boating accident attorneys at Morrow & Sheppard LLP for a free, confidential consultation.

  • Millions of Dollars Recovered for Our Clients

  • Hundreds of Cases Won in Excess of $1 Billion

  • Help With All Types of Boating Accidents

  • A Track Record of Success

  • Only Pay If You Win

Boating Accident Cases – Overview

Boating accidents can happen to anyone aboard a watercraft and can result in horrific injuries and even death regardless of the size of the boat, from a 10-foot fishing boat to the 1,200 foot Icon of the Seas cruise ship.

In 2023, recreational boating accidents, like fishing boat accidents, accounted for 564 deaths, 2,126 injuries, and approximately $63 million dollars in property damage.

Most boating accidents are entirely preventable and are caused by the negligence of another person such as operator inattention, improper lookout, operator inexperience, and excessive speed.  Additionally, a smaller percentage of boating accidents are due to a product defect or machinery failure.  In either of these cases, the injured persons and their families may be entitled to compensation from the product manufacturer or responsible operator and should consider speaking with a reliable boating accident attorney.

Most Common Types of Boating Accident Cases

According to the United States Coast Guard, some of the most common boating accidents include:

  • Grounding, capsizing, sinking, or flooding/swamping
  • Falls in or overboard from a vessel
  • Persons ejected from a vessel
  • Fires or explosions that occur while underway and while anchored, moored, or docked if the fire resulted from the vessel or vessel equipment
  • Water-skiing accidents or other mishaps involving towable devices
  • Collision with another vessel or object
  • Striking a submerged object
  • A person struck by a vessel, propeller, propulsion unit, or steering machinery
  • Carbon monoxide exposure
  • Electrocution due to stray current related to a vessel
  • Casualties while swimming from a vessel that is not anchored, moored, or docked.
  • Casualties where natural causes served as a contributing factor in the death of an individual but the determined cause of death was drowning
  • Casualties from natural phenomena such as interaction with marine life (i.e. leaping sturgeon causes casualty to person) and interaction with nature (i.e. mountainside falls onto vessel causing casualties).
  • Casualties where a person falls off an anchored vessel
  • Casualties that result when a person departs an anchored, disabled vessel to make repairs, such as unfolding an anchor or cleaning out the intake of a jet-propelled vessel.

Boating Equipment Failures or Design Flaws – Product Liability Cases

Many boating accidents are a result of the negligence of the operator.  However, some boating accidents are a result of a design flaw in the boat’s equipment or defective parts used on the boat.  If the accident occurs due to a design flaw or defective parts, the injured party may file a product liability claim against the boat manufacturer or the manufacturer of the defective part or equipment. For example, if a boat’s steering system malfunctions while in use and fails to respond to the operators attempt to turn the boat and the boat crashes into another boat or an obstacle, the injured persons would have a product liability claim against the person or company responsible for the steering mechanism.  Thus, there are plenty of boating cases where the operator is not the one to blame.

Fishing Boat Accidents

Recreational fishing across the US has consistently increased in popularity over the last 10 years and reached a record high in 2020 as Americans adapted their lives to the Covid-19 pandemic.  Many popular fishing locations accessed by boats such as lakes and rivers cannot grow in response to this increased traffic which results in more crowded lakes and rivers with fishing boats. Unsurprisingly, many boating accidents occur on and between fishing boats in these popular lakes and rivers.  These fishing boats accidents ruin what was supposed to be a fun and relaxing day on the lake or river into a tragedy.  Most of these accidents are linked to operator negligence as many popular fishing areas have tight corners and blind sections which can result in collisions between fishing boats.

Jurisdiction of Boating Accident Cases

Determining where (jurisdiction) someone can bring a boating accident lawsuit is often extremely difficult and is filled with complicated rules.  For example, imagine a boat registered in Texas operated by someone from Oklahoma is involved in an accident off the coast of Louisiana.  Deciding on whether a Texas, Oklahoma, or Louisiana court has jurisdiction over the boat accident lawsuit is not immediately clear. To make matters worse, boating accidents involving cruise ships can be even more complicated as many of those accidents occur in international waters such as off the coast of Mexico, the Bahamas, and other Caribbean countries. Generally, the type of body of water where the accident occurred is going to be the main factor in determining which court has jurisdiction over the boating accident.  For example, accidents on non-navigable waters, such as inland lakes and ponds, will generally be brought in a state court in the county where the body of water is located in.  Conversely, accidents on navigable waters such as large rivers and oceans will generally be brought in federal court closest to where the accident occurred. Anyone injured in a boating accident should consult a top-rated boating accident attorney like the ones at Morrow & Sheppard due to the complexity of determining jurisdiction in boating accident cases.  Our attorneys are experts at determining which court is the proper court to bring your boating accident case.

How Common Are Boating Accident Cases

Boating accident cases have become increasingly common over the last 10 years given the steady number of boating accidents as a result of the increased popularity of on the water activities and boat ownership rates.  Unlike personal road motor vehicles, which have advanced dramatically with anti-collision technologies such as blind spot monitoring and lane assist technology, most boats are still using the same technology from decades ago to navigate the waters.  This means that boat operator’s mistakes are often magnified as there is no technology to prevent the boat from getting into an accident caused from an operator’s error.

How Much Are Boat Accident Cases Worth?

Boating accident cases are often very valuable due to the unfortunate combination of extreme force and the preventable nature of most accidents. Boating accident cases can range from just a few thousand dollars to tens of millions of dollars, depending on the severity of the injury, the defendant, and the specific cause of the injury.

Examples of Boat Accident Cases Verdicts and Settlements

Boat accident cases can result in significant jury verdicts or settlements depending on the severity of the injuries, liability, and other factors such as medical expenses and lost wages.  Below are examples of boat accident verdicts and settlements:

$35 Million Jet Ski Jury Verdict – Defective Steering Design and Failure to Warn

In this case, a Yamaha jet ski’s lack of off-throttle steering led to a fatal collision with a boat, killing one teenager and causing permanent brain damage to another.  The jury determined that Yamaha was liable for failing to design the jet ski to steer without using the throttle and failing to properly warn operators that the jet ski would not steer without the throttle being applied.

$17 Million Duck Boat Collision Settlement

In 2010, two Hungarian students drowned and twelve others were injured when the duck boat on which they were riding was run over by a barge.  The evidence revealed that at the time of the collision, the barge operator was texting on his phone and was not paying attention to other boats in its path.  The family of the deceased and the surviving passengers were able to obtain a $17 million settlement.

Most Common Injuries In Boating Accident Lawsuits

Given the extreme forces involved, many boating accidents result in severe injuries to the victims of these accidents such as;

  • Head injuries including concussions, skull fractures, or traumatic brain injuries;
  • Amputations of limbs which are severed or crushed during an impact;
  • Drowning or near-drowning injuries from victims that are thrown into the water after an accident; and
  • Burn injuries from fires that can form after a collision.
  • The damages that a victim can recover in a boating accident include damages for;
  • Mental pain suffering and mental anguish caused as a result of the accident;
  • Disfigurement caused by changes to your body’s appearance after the accident;
  • Disabilities caused by the accident;
  • Medical bills for past and future treatment;
  • Lost wages after the accident and future lost wages if you cannot return to work and;
  • Punitive damages the jury awards to punish any reckless conduct of the person or company who responsible for the accident.

Common locations of boating injury incidents:

Many of the most common locations for boating accidents in the Texas and Louisiana region are also some of the more popular and busy boating locations such as;

  • Lake Travis and Lake LBJ in Austin, Texas
  • Lake Lewisville in Dallas, Texas
  • Lake Conroe in Houston, Texas
  • Canyon Lake in San Antonio, Texas

While these lakes are some of the more common lakes where boating accidents occur, our office can assist with boating accidents nationwide including boating accidents in New Orleans, Plano, Brownsville, and Beaumont.

How Much Does It Cost To Hire A Boat Accident Law Firm?

Hiring an incompetent boating accident attorney could really cost you. If you or a loved one have been involved in a boating accident, give the attorneys at Morrow & Sheppard LLP a call.  The consultation with an attorney is free and you don’t pay anything unless the firm recovers funds for you.

Morrow & Sheppard Boating Accident Law Firm

Contact Morrow & Sheppard LLP today if you were involved in a boating accident and want to discuss which damages you might be able to recover in your case with an experienced boat accident injury lawyer.  Our attorneys are experts at maximizing the amount of damages that you can recover from your boating accident.

What Our Clients Are Saying

Excellent
4.9
Rod A.
Rod A.
Thank you so much Griselda for great service and helping me..through of the case..
Dray H.
Dray H.
From the very first consultation, I was struck by their professionalism and commitment. Chris and Daniel took the time to listen to my concerns, understand our situation, and outline a clear path forward. It was apparent that they all were not just going through the motions; they were genuinely invested in achieving the best outcome for my son as he suffered a lot from being hit by a car. Throughout the process, their hard work was evident. Your choice of legal representation can make a world of difference, and I am fortunate to have found a lawyer and Firm who embodies these qualities. Thank you once again for everything; your efforts will not be forgotten. If you need an honest law firm that's going to be transparent and help get the best results, call Morrow and Sheppard.
FRANK H.
FRANK H.
They went through highs and lows to help me with my case. At the end we won thanks morrow & Sheppard so much…
Elena H.
Elena H.
They were professional and very helpful with everything. If had any questions they would be quick to respond and was able to help me understand it better on things during the whole case. Thank you so much and keep up the excellent work.
Pavan L.
Pavan L.
I must recommend MS LLP for their superb services. Their team is very attentive and responsive in assisting at all times.
Cynthia D.
Cynthia D.
Griselda was so helpful and knowledgeable! She made the entire experience seamless and went the extra mile on our case. We are so happy we chose Morrow & Sheppard to represent us!
Michael J.
Michael J.
John Sheppard and Chris West did an outstanding job in representing me following a rear-end collision. Highly recommended!
Jeff S.
Jeff S.
Nick and Laura are the best..They helped every step of the way.Can’t recommend them highly enough.Not only do they get results but they care and make you feel like family.
Cassandra M.
Cassandra M.
They were very professional and understanding. The have patience and do their job well. If I had to return I would with no hesitation
Juber M.
Juber M.
4 months agoI am Extremely Happy with Morrow & Sheppard Lawfirm. I worked closely with Nick Morrow end Laura on my case With the rest of his staff. They were diligent in handling my law case matter to resolution. Laura end Nick would keep me up to date with the status of my case … More , They fought for me to get the best settlement possible.. I am happy with the outcome Thank you Nick and the staff Of MORROW END SHEPPARD LLP
Candace M.
Candace M.
Chris West is an excellent addition to the Morrow & Sheppard team. His skill set, dedication, and overall reliability he brings to the firm and clients are uncanny. You will not be disappointed.
Melis R.
Melis R.
I highly recommend the Morrow & Sheppard to anyone. They are an incredible group that did an outstanding job to make sure I got the highest settlement for my case. Attorney Daniel and his staff are all outstanding professionals with some serious case law knowledge and skill. His group went the extra mile for me and because of that, my life has forever changed. Thank you Attorney Daniel and everyone that’s a part of his firm that worked so hard. I really appreciate you!
D P.
D P.
I am Extremely Happy with Morrow & Sheppard Lawfirm. I worked closely with Daniel Sheppard and Chris on my case. They were diligent in handling my law case matter to resolution. Daniel would keep me up to date with the status of my case and Chris would also ensure all my paper work was submitted in a timely manner. I am Very Happy with the Outcome! Thank you Daniel and Chris. I highly recommend their services and would not hesitate to use them again.
Nikki L.
Nikki L.
Very strong and courageous law firm I recommend to anyone who has suffered a injury from companies who need to be held responsible for lack of safety and security, my family is set for life and with these lawyers never backing down and fighting for truth behind every case and seeking the best future for our family has given our family a second chance at being able to make it in life and holding companies accountable lifting burdens off our lives, very proud and beyond blessed to have had them fight the fight and have a tremendous outcome for our future. Along with a great and kind staff we HIGHLY recommend this law firm.
Marceline A.
Marceline A.
I was a client for 2.5 years after a car accident in 2019 and represented by Patrick McGinnis. He was knowledgable, compassionate, and level headed.His assisting paralegal, Ramona Anaya, was reliable, knowledgable, and kind in all our interactions.They went above and beyond to help me navigate everything that unfolded after my car accident. They were able to secure a favorable settlement before trial.I’m very happy to have had Morrow&Sheppard Firm represent me.
angel martinez J.
angel martinez J.
Professional and knowledgeable with years of experience.
Richard L.
Richard L.
I had a accident and I chose morrow&sheppard they was great from the start to the finish Chris was real informative and helpful was the whole process and got me a fair settlement they really care about there Clients if you in a car accident call them
Amanda W.
Amanda W.
After a car accident last year I went to Morrow & Sheppard for assistance. Jose and Chris were exceptionally accommodating and handled my case with professionalism. They're primary concern was my well being and they went above and beyond to ensure I would receive the best settlement possible. A very efficient and dedicated team!
Susan L.
Susan L.
I've been in the legal field for a while now and not only do I know John Sheppard & Nick Morrow, I have attorney friends that have worked with them throughout the years. This is a great firm and great people that work at Morrow & Sheppard. I have been reading the reviews on here and it makes me happy to see that their clients think as highly of them as I do.
Dale S.
Dale S.
I was injured and my business closed down due to an accident in 2016. Daniel Sheppard became my greatest asset. He hired professional experts for their views and opinions as well as conducting numerous depositions. Daniel is hard working and no nonsense when handling your case. Daniel keeps you informed on what's going on and what to expect. I'm from Louisiana and my case was in Texas. Daniel Sheppard worked alone side my other attorney Yuri Beck, and the both of them did a fantastic job representing me and settling my case. Daniel Sheppard of Morrow & Sheppard in Texas and Yuri Beck of Hunter & Beck in Louisiana are my lawyers for LIFE.
Rosie E.
Rosie E.
Nick Morrow and John Sheppard were the lead attorneys on my case to hold an apartment complex with inadequate security responsible for the death of my son. The two of them were focused and determined to represent me and my son's children with tenacity. As the case continued over time, it became apparent that we were not merely clients that were a means to a financial end to them but people who had experienced a life changing and devastating loss. They realized that as a result of our loss, there needed to be accountability that could only be obtained through legal actions. Throughout the legal process, Nick Morrow and John Sheppard were not only professional and transparent but also compassionate and empathetic as they lead us through the difficult and sometimes confusing legal maze. Every person in their office that was involved with our case exemplified an extension of the genuine concern that began with attorneys Morrow and Sheppard. I have and will continue to recommend this firm to individuals who find themselves in need of legal representation.
Don D.
Don D.
The legal team at Morrow and Shepherd worked hard to help me win my case where a motorist who caused the accident changed her story and lied about the accident. A previous attorney kept telling me that I would probably have to pay some of the medical costs out of my own pocket.Daniel, my attorney, assured me that he would it is best to make sure this did not happen and that he would fight to get me the best compensation possible. He was true to his word.I'm happy with their work, happy with the compensation and would definitely use them again.The Legal Assistant, Chris, was always professional, friendly and polite and a pleasure to work with.A big thanks to the team!Don
Jeff N.
Jeff N.
Nick and his group have helped where they can and are working hard to get a resolution to my injuries. I spoke with 4 different law firms prior to choosing Morrow & Sheppard LLP.ThanksJeff
Elizabeth Swanson V.
Elizabeth Swanson V.
I was referred to Daniel Sheppard because of a car accident I had been in. I was very impressed with how he told me about the process of how things worked and the things to expect. He was very forth coming and always supportive. The experience was a positive one and ended on a great note! I highly recommend him.Elizabeth Varon
Christine E.
Christine E.
Before I engaged John Sheppard, I was concerned that I might lose my case. However, John came onboard, turned things around, and set me on a good course to win. He got up to speed quickly on the facts and determined exactly what we needed to do. He is great at strategy, filing discovery and other motions, and arguing before the court. I was extremely pleased with the outcome of my case. If you need legal help in a personal injury action, commercial law or whatever, hire him immediately! He is a pleasure to work with, will thoroughly explain all to you in a manner you can understand, and will get you the best possible outcome. A+++
BB C.
BB C.
I was seriously injured and they represented me and I was so happy with the outcome and would recommend them to any others seeking professional lawyers. They also set me up with the best doctors. My son and I have now put this lawsuit behind us thanks to Morrow & Sheppard.
Stephen T.
Stephen T.
Phenomenal lawyer. I can not heap enough praise on these guys,.
III 4.
III 4.
Nick Morrow is a GREAT lawyer that really knows his job. He made me feel comfortable about hiring him to handle my case. He’s trustworthy and very compassionate about his work. His staff is awesome also, everyone was nice and friendly to me when I visited the office. The settlement I received exceeded my expectations, it was four times what I expected. I would highly recommend Morrow and Sheppard to anyone needing legal representation. Thanks again Nick!!
tim C.
tim C.
I was injured working offshore. Morrow & Sheppard handled my maritime case and won a great settlement for me. If you have been injured at work, Morrow & Sheppard are great offshore injury lawyers.
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