No one wants to need one, but circumstances do arise when it might be advisable to hire one.
When we're on the water recreating, perhaps enjoying some beer in the hot sun, usually the last thing on our mind is safety. But boating accidents happen because people underestimate the dangers of boating. Naturally, we're very trained, both by media and experience, to be vigilant when driving a motor vehicle. But a motor boat? I'm on vacation, I do not want to think about anything negative.
The fact is, boating accidents can be very serious, resulting in severe injury or death. They often happen due to negligence. That's defined as "conduct that falls below the level of care that society considers to be reasonable to protect others or society at large from harm." Those deciding if negligence has occurred are the judge or a jury.
If an accident occurs where someone has been hurt or there's a loss of property, an attorney specializing in personal injuries, and sometimes even specifically boating personal injuries, should be consulted. A lawyer who is specifically adept with boating issues would not be as likely to be found in land-locked areas. So a personal injury attorney may be the only option. It's important to remember that there's a statute of limitations for such a claim. All the particulars of things involving the law, boating accidents, reporting of them, etc. will be subject to the laws of the state where the incident happens. It's the boat owner's responsibility to file a police report and proceed with whatever else is required.
It may be more prudent to set out of court if an accident occurs. Often the cost of going to court will be higher than the value of the accident itself. On the other hand, sometimes the person wronged his intentions "day in court" no matter what the cost. No matter what direction is taken, it's good to keep in mind that whatever has happened can not be undone. The time to think about the consequences of an accident are before one occasions – making efforts to be safety conscious and obey all posted rules and maritime laws and rules, which can be obtained.
I remember once being in court when a friend came in who was extremely stressed because he was being boating and given a ticket since his wake was too high as he approached the dock. He'd had no idea there even was such a rule. Much stress could have been avoided in this minor situation if he had gotten the needed education.