The weather in California is ideal for sailing and other activities on a boat. But actually owning a boat and taking care of it is not something most people can afford, and as a result, it makes sense to rent a boat for individual outings. There are plenty of rental boat companies to choose from, but some of these places can be negligent in their duty of care to the customer. Failure to maintain and repair the boats, hire qualified staff, disclosing potential dangers and other examples of neglect can result in serious accidents. As someone who was injured in a boat rental accident, you may have grounds to sue the company for monetary compensation.
Boat rental injury claims against rental companies can be very complicated, and that’s why representation from a personal injury lawyer is strongly recommended. The boat malfunction attorneys of Normandie are ready to handle every stage of your case and ensure the most timely resolution, while you focus on your physical and emotional recovery. We are ready to hear your story and develop a legal strategy that’s unique to your needs and circumstances. Please get in touch with us today and schedule a free case review if you suffered injuries on a rental boat.
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When can a Boating Rental Company be Sued for an Accident?
Boating accidents can happen in the blink of an eye for many different reasons. A thorough investigation is needed to determine who is liable for the crash and the injuries to everyone on board. We have a dedicated team of experts who are ready to investigate your accident, locate evidence, talk to witnesses, and do whatever is necessary to preserve your legal rights. It’s very common in the situations to sue a rental company, as they are in charge of the vessel.
What if I signed a waiver in order to rent the boat?
Boating companies typically make you sign waivers, but this does not necessarily take away your right to file a lawsuit. Here are the situations that can provide a legal basis for a boat rental injury lawsuit, regardless of a waiver:
Hiring Someone Without Proper Licensing
Prior to 2025, all persons that are 60 year old or younger must complete the necessary training to earn a Boater Card. However, the current laws require a Boater Card for anyone of any age that works for a boating rental company. So, if the company hires someone without a Boater Card, they can be sued for accidents on boats that are caused by the uncertified employee.
Failure to Warn
A waiver required for a boat rental normally has a list of risks and dangers, but a responsible company will issue verbal warnings to the passengers about the risk of injury, rough waters, bad weather, and other hazardous conditions. If the staff failed to warn you of something that can cause harm and you end up with injuries as a result, the company may be liable.
Lack of or Poor Maintenance of the Boat
Companies that rent out boats must inspect, maintain, and make repairs on all their vessels according to state regulations. Poor maintenance can result in the boat throttle sticking and other malfunctions with devastating consequences. Each vessel must also be equipped with the proper equipment, which includes:
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Navigational lights
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Lifejackets or regulation compliant personal floatation devices for each passenger
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Fire extinguisher that is approved by the coast guard
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Muffler that meets state regulations
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Sound-producing device, like a whistle
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Current registration
A boating rental company can be sued by injury victims when there is a failure to properly inspect and equip the boats or follow other requirements under California law. A personal injury claim against the company can result in medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and other monetary damages. Family members of deceased victims can pursue a wrongful death lawsuit for compensation such as loss of consortium, funeral expenses, and loss of expected savings.
Ineligible Passengers
Rental companies must ensure that a passenger is qualified to operate or ride on a boat prior to renting out the vessel. Here are some of the conditions that can make a patron ineligible for a boat rental:
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The person is younger than 16 and does not have a California Boater Card, which is required for operating a boat that has a motor of 15 or more horsepower.
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The patron is visibly impaired or under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.
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The number of passengers exceeds the capacity limits for the boat.
Neglecting any of these responsibilities puts people in danger, and boat companies must be accountable. Filing a liability claim is an effective way to punish the company and secure monetary funding for the victims and their loved ones.
Contact Our Team of Boat Rental Company Accident Lawyers
Here at Normandie, we know that proving negligence by a boating company can be difficult for the average accident victim. Even if you have the right to sue, there are many aspects of the legal system that are frustrating. Our boat malfunction attorneys are here to guide you on the road to justice and fight for maximum compensation to cover your losses.
Along with decades of experience in personal injury and wrongful death cases, we are prepared to offer you a Zero Fee Guarantee. In essence, you pay $0 in legal fees if you decide that we are the right firm to represent you. Legal costs are recovered at the end once you receive compensation from a settlement or jury verdict. If we do not bring you compensation at the end of a boating accident lawsuit, you walk away from the situation without losing a cent.
For more information on your rights after an accident due to negligence by a boat rental company, call us to schedule a free case review. We look forward to joining you on the road to recovery and helping you move forward in a positive direction.
Other Pages on Our Website Related to This Topic
What Is The Potential Value Of My Boat Injury Claim?
Fishing Boat Injury Attorney In California
The Average Value of a Boating Accident
