Let's Go Sailing Passengers Injured--Rights and Remedies on the Water

Michael Myers

Attorney
(866) 735-1102 Ext 580

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Yesterday KIRO TV reported a collision between a Bayliner Trophy and a 42-foot sailboat near Alki Point.  Three people suffered injuries.  

"They told me this guy came out of nowhere and smashed into them going wide open in his power boat. The rumor I heard from the passengers is that he didn't even let up the throttle when he hit the boat," said LaMarche.

Because the accident happened on a navigable waterway, the rights and remedies of the injured passengers is governed under martiime law.  It makes sense for maritime law to apply when people are injured, e.g., in Puget Sound, but it is also important to note that injuries suffered in boating accidents on lakes, rivers and streams can and frequently are also subject to maritime law.