Boating is a relaxing and enjoyable way to spend time on the water, whether you are there for recreation, fishing, or to enjoy the scenery. Of course, boating comes with unique dangers in the event of an accident.
Boat collisions are an exceptionally high risk for traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) due to factors like sudden impacts, slippery surfaces, and the unpredictable nature of water.
At Hackard Law, our skilled TBI attorneys are here for people who need help and do not know where to turn. Our founder, Michael Hackard, brings a unique perspective as a TBI survivor himself, and he is passionate about helping others navigate this challenging experience.
When you or a loved one has suffered a TBI from a boat accident in Rancho Cordova, you can count on us to guide you every step of the way.
TBIs are caused by external forces, such as hits to the head, jolts that cause the brain to move, or penetrating injuries. Anyone in a Rancho Cordova boat accident should know about TBI symptoms and seek medical help.
Some TBIs are immediately apparent. An injured person who appears confused, suffers vision loss, or has dilated pupils may have a head injury. Other injuries may develop over time. It is vital for people who experience symptoms like headaches, difficulty concentrating, dizziness, sensory impairments, and behavior changes to get prompt medical attention.
Unlike cars, boats offer minimal physical protection, exposing passengers to external forces during a crash. The motion of water, sudden stops, or collisions with other vessels or stationary objects can cause individuals to lose balance and hit their heads against hard surfaces like decks, railings, or even the water itself.
While many think of water as soft, it poses a substantial danger. Once people hit a certain velocity, the surface tension of water can make it as hard as the ground. A fall into the water can also lead to TBIs if the head strikes submerged objects, such as a dock or boat. Even without direct head impact, rapid acceleration or deceleration during a wreck can cause the brain to hit the inside of the skull, resulting in a TBI.
Environmental factors also contribute to the risk of TBIs. Boats often operate in conditions with reduced visibility, bad weather, or high speeds, which can increase the likelihood of accidents. With slippery surfaces and a lack of restraints like seatbelts, passengers in Rancho Cordova have a higher chance of suffering a TBI from sudden impact in a boat collision.
In addition to providing legal advocacy, the Hackard Law team can help clients understand their diagnosis, treatment plans, and the potential long-term implications of their injuries.
Since TBIs often require long-term ongoing care, understanding these implications is critical to ensure clients do not accept lowball settlement offers that will not fully compensate for their losses.
Reaching out for help after a traumatic brain injury can feel daunting. The overwhelming feelings, fear of financial devastation, and overnight change to physical, mental, and emotional conditions can leave little room for anything else.
When you or a loved one has suffered a TBI from a boating accident in Rancho Cordova, you do not have to face this alone. Contact us today for a consultation and learn why we say a TBI is never just an accident.
(916) 775-8542