Published on: 09/01/23 — In Personal Injury

Boat propeller injuries and accidents can result in severe consequences and occur frequently when a boat lacks propeller guards that are a perfect fit for boats, leading to individuals being struck by the rotating blades of the boat's propeller. This can occur while swimming, water skiing, or operating a personal watercraft. The high-speed spinning blades without proper safety devices can cause severe injury or death.

To prevent these accidents, it's important to take safety precautions. Passengers should stay seated and in their designated areas while the boat is moving. Swimmers should stay away from the propellers and boat engines and always wear a life jacket. Boat operators should check the area before starting the engine and be aware of any nearby swimmers at the swim platform.

If you ever find yourself in a boat propeller accident situation due to a negligent boat driver, it is important to seek medical help immediately. Victims of propeller accidents should contact an experienced personal injury attorney who can protect their rights and ensure that they receive fair compensation.

Call Ktenas Injury Attorneys today at (312) 300-2515 for a free consultation with one of our experienced Chicago boat accident attorneys!

How Common Are Boat Propeller Accidents?

Boat propeller injury accidents are unfortunately all too common. Each year, thousands of people are injured in boating accidents that involve contact with a propeller. These types of boating fatalities can occur as a result of the boat operator driving recklessly, operating the boat while consuming alcoholic beverages, not following safety tips, putting the engine in gear or the gear in reverse without properly looking, losing steering control through the prop pitch, and traveling at an unsafe speed.

Additionally, boat passengers can be injured if there is a sudden movement for passengers of the boat by the boat captain if they are in the water and they are not wearing a life jacket, or if they venture too close to the propeller blades.

a closeup photo of a propeller on a boat

No matter the cause of a boat propeller accident, the results can be devastating. Boat propeller injury claim victims may suffer from serious physical injuries, such as deep lacerations or broken bones, as well as psychological trauma. In some cases, these accidents can even result in death. That is why it is so important to exercise additional safety and caution when operating or swimming near boats and to always wear a life jacket when swimming.

What Happens if a Boat Propeller Hits You?

If a boat propeller hits you, the consequences can be severe and potentially life-threatening. Depending on the propeller's speed and contact location, it can cause serious lacerations, fractures, deep tissue damage, amputation, or even death.

The most common boat accident propeller injuries include deep lacerations, fractures, and amputation. It is also possible for victims to suffer from psychological trauma or post-traumatic stress disorder.

In addition to seeking medical attention, it is important to contact an experienced attorney who can help you receive the compensation you deserve. An experienced personal injury lawyer will ensure that your rights are protected and that you receive the financial assistance necessary to cover medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.

Boat propeller accidents cause approximately 7% of boating-related deaths in the US, according to the US Coast Guard. These accidents happen when someone is struck by a moving propeller while entering or exiting the water, swimming near it, or being pulled into it. To prevent these accidents, safety precautions must be taken when operating or swimming near boats.

Passengers should stay seated while the boat is moving, and swimmers should always wear a life jacket. Boat operators should check the area before starting the engine and be aware of swimmers nearby. Unfortunately, boat propeller accidents are common and can result in severe physical injuries and psychological trauma.

What is the Primary Cause of Propeller Accidents?

Negligence can involve failure to properly maintain and inspect the vessel, lack of attention to the boat's direction, and operating the boat without a lookout. Other causes can include operating too close to other vessels, driving a boat at speed, navigating in shallow or restricted waters, not wearing life jackets, and improper anchoring or mooring leading to drifting into a hazard.

Learn More: How to File a Boat Accident Claim

The consequences of a boat engine propeller accident can be very serious and potentially life-threatening. Victims may suffer from deep lacerations, fractures, amputation, or even death. In addition to physical injury, psychological trauma is also possible. It is important for those who have been in a boat propeller accident to seek medical attention and contact an experienced boat accident lawyer who can help them get the compensation they deserve.

Liability in Boat Accidents

When a boat is involved in an accident, the issue of liability is often brought up. Liability can refer to both criminal and civil responsibility for the accident. In criminal cases, the responsible party may face fines or even jail time depending on the severity of their actions. In civil cases, the responsible party may be required to compensate those injured in the accident.

To determine liability in a boat accident, both the operator of the vessel and any third parties that may have contributed to the incident need to be evaluated. This evaluation may involve examining evidence such as witness statements, photographs, and video footage. An experienced attorney will be able to help victims seek compensation for their injuries and other damages caused by the accident.

Steps to Take for a Successful Boat Accident Claim

When faced with a boat propeller accident, taking the necessary steps to ensure a successful claim is important. The following steps can be taken to ensure that your boat accident claim is successful:

Seek medical attention. This should be done as soon as possible after the accident. Make sure you receive proper treatment and document all of your injuries.
Make sure that you adhere to all instructions given by medical professionals and law enforcement to ensure an accurate record of the incident.
Gather evidence. Take photographs or videos of the scene, collect contact information from potential witnesses, and document anything else that may prove useful in your claim.
Contact an experienced attorney. An experienced lawyer can provide guidance and representation throughout the claims process

Call Ktenas Injury Attorneys

If you or a loved one have been injured in an accident involving a boat propeller, the Ktenas Injury Attorneys can help. Our team of experienced injury attorneys has extensive knowledge of boating laws and regulations, and we will fight to ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.

We know how devastating and traumatic these accidents can be for victims and their families, which is why we are committed to providing the highest level of legal representation.