New York City Ferry Accident Lawyers
New York City Ferry Accidents
Ferry transportation is widely considered to be one of the safest means of transportation in the United States. However, ferry accidents have become increasingly frequent over the past few years. With nearly sixty ferry landings in and around New York City and Long Island, which are being serviced by more than six different registered service operators, ferry traveling has become a way of life for New Yorkers and tourists alike. While many small incidents go unreported, the potential for injury resulting from ferry travel is frightening. Ferry accidents have the potential to cause serious or fatal injury as well as extensive property damage and even the spillage of hazardous waste or material.
Have you or a loved one been Injured in a New York City Ferry Accident?
The New York City Ferry Accident Lawyers at Finz & Finz, P.C., can help you obtain compensation for your lost wages, medical expenses, and pain and suffering. Contact our New York City Ferry Accident Lawyers today at (855) TOP-FIRM.
Ferry Accident Data
Over the past ten years there have been dozens of New York City ferry accidents. These accidents have involved thousands of passengers and hundreds of travelers have been injured or killed while traveling on a New York City ferry. Over that same timeframe there has been a surge of reported ferry accidents. These recent accidents are highlighted by a 2013 crash of a high speed commuter ferry operated by Seastreak LLC in New York City involving 342 passengers. The crash injured more than 70 passengers. Accidents like this demonstrate the dangers that New York ferries pose to both passengers and bystanders.
What are the most Common Causes of Ferry Accidents?
There are many different causes of ferry accidents that involve both passengers and non-passengers:
- Operator error
- Poor weather
- Turbulent waters
- Inadequate visibility by the captain
- Electronic systems malfunction
- Overcrowding
- Collisions with recreational boats
- Collisions with commercial boats
- Collisions with other ferries
- Collisions with a dock or pier
- Capsizing
- Sinking
- Mechanical breakdown
Negligence by the operating company can often be found as a direct cause of a ferry accident. Lack of proper maintenance, poor operating protocols and procedures, and lack of operator training have all been linked to past ferry accidents. Many of the past accidents could have been avoided if the registered operating companies had taken the proper precautions. It is important to speak with an experienced ferry accident attorney in order to determine who is at fault in a ferry accident case.
Types of Ferry Accident Injuries
Ferry accident injuries are similar to injuries sustained in other commercial transportation accidents involving violent maneuvering such as cruise ships and train accidents. Reported injuries include:
- Spinal cord or back injuries
- Ligament damage
- Concussions
- Brain or head injuries
- Fractures
- Soft tissue injuries
- Burns
- Dismemberment
- And in the worst cases, death
What you Should do if a Ferry Accident Occurs
If you or someone you know is involved in a New York City ferry accident it is important to collect the following information:
General
- Location of the ferry at the time of the accident
- Date and time of the ferry accident
Ferry Operator
- The registered service provider operating the ferry
- The captain’s name and operating number
- The direction the ferry was traveling
Legal Help for New York City Ferry Accident Victims
If you are in a ferry accident and have suffered a serious injury it is important to contact an attorney that is experienced in representing clients that have been injured in New York City ferry accidents. The law firm of Finz & Finz, P.C., has attorneys on staff that are ready to help you obtain the compensation that you are entitled to. Fill out the Free Ferry Accident Case Evaluation form or call toll free at (855) TOP-FIRM so that your rights are protected and an investigation on your behalf can be started.