Pleasure craft accidents frequently fall under maritime law

Most people may think of maritime or admiralty law for cases involving ships, tugs, barges and offshore platforms.  However, small boat accidents also frequently fall into the category of maritime law. It depends greatly upon where the accident occurred. Generally speaking, if the accident took place on navigable waterways-which in some cases may include rivers and lakes-the case will fall under federal maritime law such as the Jones Act. If it occurs in non-navigable waterways then the case will be governed under the laws of that state.

There are far more accidents of the small or pleasure craft variety than of larger commercial vessels. Pleasure craft incidents involve private fishing boats, jet skis, diving, parasailing, windsurfing, skiing, kayaking and other vessels.

If you've been involved in a pleasure boat accident consider contacting a maritime law firm.