Fighting for Justice for Watercraft Accident Victims in Central Virginia

Boating is a popular recreational activity in Virginia, but when boaters act recklessly or fail to follow safety laws, serious accidents can occur. A boating accident can lead to catastrophic injuries, property damage, and even wrongful death, leaving victims and their families struggling with medical bills, lost wages, and emotional distress.

At Overbey, Hawkins, Wright & Vance, PLLC, we represent victims of boating accidents in Lynchburg and throughout Central Virginia. Whether your injuries were caused by a reckless boat operator, a defective watercraft, or unsafe conditions, we will fight to ensure you receive maximum compensation for your injuries.

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Common Causes of Boating Accidents in Virginia

Boating accidents often occur due to operator negligence or failure to follow Virginia boating laws. Some of the most common causes include:

  • Boating under the influence (BUI) – Operating a boat while intoxicated is illegal and extremely dangerous.
  • Reckless or careless operation – Speeding, sharp turns, or failing to yield to other boats.
  • Distracted boating – Using a phone, chatting with passengers, or not paying attention to surroundings.
  • Failure to follow navigational rules – Violating right-of-way laws or ignoring warning signs.
  • Mechanical failures or defective equipment – Poorly maintained boats or manufacturer defects.
  • Dangerous weather conditions – Sudden storms or high waves creating hazardous conditions.

How Our Boating Accident Attorneys Can Help

The Overbey, Hawkins, Wright & Vance, PLLC team understands the unique legal complexities of boating accident cases. Here’s how we can help:
Investigating the Accident
Investigating the Accident

Gathering witness statements, Coast Guard reports, and physical evidence

Identifying Liable Parties
Identifying Liable Parties

Holding boat operators, rental companies, or manufacturers accountable

Handling Insurance Claims
Handling Insurance Claims

Negotiating with insurers who try to minimize your payout

Pursuing Full Compensation
Pursuing Full Compensation

Seeking damages for medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and property damage

Taking Your Case to Trial if Necessary
Taking Your Case to Trial if Necessary

Taking your case to trial if necessary – If a fair settlement isn’t offered, we are prepared to fight in court

Boating accidents can be complex, and insurance companies will often try to shift blame to the victim. Our attorneys fight aggressively to protect your rights.

Serving Lynchburg & Central Virginia

Virginia is home to many popular boating destinations, including:

  • Smith Mountain Lake
  • The James River
  • Claytor Lake
  • Leesville Lake
  • Lake Anna
  • Buggs Island Lake (Kerr Reservoir)

Our firm proudly serves boating accident victims in Lynchburg, Campbell County, Amherst, Bedford, Appomattox, and beyond. We are committed to holding negligent boaters accountable and ensuring our clients receive the justice they deserve.

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What Compensation Can You Recover After a Boating Accident?

If you were injured in a boating accident in Virginia, you may be entitled to compensation for:

  • Medical expenses – Emergency care, hospital bills, rehabilitation, and long-term treatment.
  • Lost wages – Compensation for missed work and lost future earnings.
  • Pain and suffering – Emotional distress, PTSD, and physical pain.
  • Property damage – Repair or replacement of your boat or personal property.
  • Wrongful death damages – If a loved one was fatally injured in a boating accident.

Boating accident claims can be complicated, but our legal team will fight to recover every dollar you deserve.

What to Do After a Boating Accident in Virginia

After a DUI-related accident, taking the right steps can strengthen your case:

  1. Seek medical attention – Even if injuries seem minor, get checked by a doctor.
  2. Report the accident – Notify the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources or the U.S. Coast Guard.
  3. Gather evidence – Take photos of the scene, boat damage, and injuries. It can also be helpful to document weather conditions.
  4. Get witness information – Statements from other boaters or beachgoers can be valuable.
  5. Do not admit fault – Anything you say could be used against you.
  6. Contact a boating accident lawyer – The sooner we start investigating, the stronger your case.

Speak to a Lawyer Today

Call Now – Protect Your Rights After a Boating Accident

A boating accident can leave you physically, emotionally, and financially overwhelmed, but you don’t have to face it alone. At Overbey, Hawkins, Wright & Vance, PLLC, we fight for boating accident victims and their families.

Call (800) 201-9987 for a Free Consultation

No Fees Unless We Win No Fees Unless We Win
Decades of Experience Decades of Experience
Millions Recovered for Clients Millions Recovered for Clients

Frequently Asked Questions About Boating Accident Claims

Who can be held liable in a boating accident?

Liability depends on who was at fault. Responsible parties may include:

  • The boat operator (if they were reckless, intoxicated, or careless).
  • The boat owner (if they allowed an unqualified or impaired person to operate the vessel).
  • A rental company (if they failed to maintain the boat).
  • The boat manufacturer (if a defective part caused the accident).

Our team can help evaluate if anyone other than the boat operator should be held liable for the accident.

Can I still recover compensation if I wasn’t wearing a life jacket?

Yes. Virginia law does not require adults to wear life jackets, and not wearing one does not automatically bar you from seeking compensation.

What if the person who hit me was drinking but wasn’t over the legal limit?

Even if the boat operator wasn’t legally intoxicated, any level of impairment can be considered negligence. We can still hold them accountable for unsafe boating behavior.

How long do I have to file a claim?

Virginia law allows you two years from the accident date to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, boating cases often involve complex investigations, so it’s best to contact an attorney as soon as possible.

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