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California

Boating Accident Lawyers

When you’ve been hurt in a boating accident, choose Sam & Ash Injury Law — California’s trusted legal team. We fight relentlessly for ‘What’s Right,’ and provide caring, approachable counsel, available 24/7 to support you.

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Award-Winning Attorneys

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Our Clients Win More

$500MM

Recovered for accident victims across Nevada and California

24/7

Availability to answer your questions & offer a free case review

16+

Practice areas handled by our experienced legal team

98%

Success rate for clients we represent in personal injury claims

No Fees Until YOU Win

I spoke with Ian ( lead attorney ) this morning about a possible case. Although my case wasn’t strong, he literally took an hour to discuss and give law based facts as to how a case works and why my case would be a challenge. Ian is a true gentleman and has an approach that is unmatched! If you have a possible case do yourself a favor and reach out to him… it will be the most honest answer you can get during a tough situation. Good Luck with your journey!!

DCM

California

I got rear-ended in the In-N-Out drive thru. It wasn’t a very high speed accident. But by the time I got home I could barely stand up. My back has been a little fragile ever since the military and the impact of that minor accident did a number on me.

The damage to my car was only $500 (tough Jeep bumper). Luckily, I knew not to trust the insurance company and that they would use the minor damage to screw me over.

I called Sam & Ash on a weekend and was immediately guided what to do and taken care of.

Not only would I have got a worse result (and probably not recovered fully), but it would have been so much MORE DIFFICULT if I did it on my own. Instead, they handled literally everything except going to my appointments. When the chiro stopped giving me progress, they helped me find a physical therapist. My result? I’m pretty close to 100% recovered and they put close to 10k in my pocket (even after medical bills). Incredible. I don’t think I could have got a few hundred in my pocket on my own.

Robert H

California

Sam & Ash Injury Law is one of the best law firms I worked with. I highly recommend them to anyone that needs help and support with their case. The caseworkers are nice and they care. Kayla called and checked on me and sent me flowers when my grandmother passed away as I was still working through the difficulties of my injury. Please give them a call and check them out. Best experience

Kayla Wheeler

California

The best lawyer that we chosen because Sam & Ash Injury Law Firm always contact you. They do not ignore you and call you on by email, post mail and phone call. I would say everything choose best lawyer which located in Newport beach, Ca. Always choose Sam & Ash Law Firm. The staff explain every detail of the meaning if you do not understand the law like myself and kind staff. You will not regret it.

JOHN SMITH

California

Ian McTaggart, managing partner of Sam & Ash LLP, is an excellent lawyer. I was very satisfied with his knowledge, professionalism and candor. Plus, he quickly returned my phone calls, was easily available and gave me expert advice on a rather tricky case. I highly recommend Ian, and Sam & Ash LLP, to anyone in Southern California seeking personal injury representation.

Dan Wessel

California

person driving a boat

We’re Here To Help

Boating should be fun — not life-threatening. But when someone acts carelessly on the water, the results can be devastating. Collisions, capsizing, and reckless driving often lead to serious injuries, and too often, the people responsible try to avoid accountability.

If you were hurt in a boating accident, we’re here to help. We’ll investigate what happened, determine who’s at fault, and fight to recover the compensation you deserve so you can focus on healing.

Filing A Claim For A Boating Accident

In California, you typically have two years from the date of a boat accident to file a personal injury claim. If the injured person is a minor, the deadline may be extended. If a government agency is involved, you must file an administrative claim within six months. The agency has 45 days to respond; if denied, you have six months to sue. If there’s no response, you have two years from the accident date to take legal action.

Boating accident claims are complex and time-sensitive. Starting early allows us to investigate thoroughly, gather evidence, and assess the full impact of your injuries. At Sam & Ash Injury Law, we’ll calculate the total value of your claim — including medical bills, future care, lost income, reduced earning capacity, and pain and suffering—and fight for everything you’re owed.

Multiple parties may be held responsible depending on the circumstances. While criminal charges like boating under the influence may apply, you must file a civil claim to seek compensation. Potentially liable parties include the boat operator, owner, crew members, or even passengers whose actions caused harm. Defective boats or equipment may lead to claims against manufacturers or maintenance providers.

The sooner you reach out, the sooner we can determine who’s at fault and begin building your case.

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ropes tied on a boat

What To Do After

If you’ve been injured in a boating accident, there are steps you can take to protect yourself and your claim for compensation:

Responders will secure the area, control the situation, and prepare an official report, ensuring proper documentation for any necessary follow-up.

Take photo and video of the scene. Store reports, important items, and any records securely so nothing useful to your case is lost or misplaced.

A prompt exam can uncover unseen injuries and create important documentation for your claim

Attend all follow-up appointments, complete recommended treatments, and participate in any necessary therapies.

If the incident occurred in public, notify nearby people, business owners, or file an incident report.

Do not wait to get the legal advice you need. We can start investigating the accident, preserving evidence, and protecting you from day one.

Record detailed notes about how the accident occurred and track symptoms, treatments, and recollections related to your recovery process.

Refrain from posting about your incident—anything posted online could impact your claim.

 

Common Injuries From A Boating Accident

  • Amputations
  • Broken bones
  • Burns
  • Carbon monoxide poisoning
  • Concussion
  • Traumatic brain injury
  • Electric shock
  • Hypothermia
  • Internal organ injury
  • Lacerations
  • Shock
  • Shoulder dislocation
  • Spinal cord injury
  • Sprains, strains 
A lifebuoy and first aid kit symbolize safety and preparedness, reflecting care and advocacy.

Common Causes And Types Of Boating Accidents

Causes:

  • Boat operation inattention
  • Operator inexperience
  • Improper lookout
  • Machinery failure
  • Excessive speed
  • Alcohol consumption
  • Force of wake caused by a boat’s speed
  • Violation of navigation rules
  • Hazardous waters
  • Hazardous weather 

Types:

  • Falling overboard or within the boat
  • Being ejected from the boat
  • Sinking, capsizing, flooding/swamping, or grounding the boat
  • Striking a submerged object
  • Collision with another boat or object above the water
  • A person being struck by the boat, its propeller, propulsion unit, or steering machinery
  • Water skiing accident or other mishap involving a towable device
  • Fire or explosions on the boat from boat equipment
  • Carbon monoxide exposure
  • Electrocution due to stray current on a boat

You May Be Entitled To Maximum Compensation

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