Ferry accidents in Philadelphia can have severe consequences for passengers because of the potential for drowning, hypothermia, and physical trauma. When a ferry collides with another vessel, runs aground, or capsizes, those on board face a high risk of life-threatening injuries. Ferry accidents can result in catastrophic injuries, and having a Philadelphia ferry accident lawyer on your side is important.
The impacts of a ferry accident extend far beyond the initial injuries, often requiring extensive medical treatment, facing lost income from inability to work, and struggling to resume their normal lives. With ferry accidents having such wide-ranging repercussions, it is crucial to seek justice. A Philadelphia personal injury lawyers can help you determine the next best step for your situation.
Common Ferry Accident Injuries
Ferry accidents often result in a wide range of serious injuries due to the unique risks associated with water transportation. Passengers may face a combination of drowning hazards, physical trauma from collisions or capsizing, and exposure to the elements. Some of the most common injuries suffered by victims of ferry accidents include:
- Near-drowning and complications from oxygen deprivation, such as brain damage, pneumonia, and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS).
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) ranging from concussions to severe brain damage, which can lead to cognitive, sensory, and motor impairments.
- Spinal cord injuries, including paralysis (paraplegia or quadriplegia), which can result in permanent disability and the need for lifelong care.
- Crush injuries and amputations, particularly if passengers become trapped in the vessel or are struck by heavy objects during the accident.
- Hypothermia from prolonged exposure to cold water, which can lead to organ failure and cardiac arrest if not treated promptly.
- Lacerations, contusions, and abrasions caused by contact with sharp or blunt objects, or from being dragged along rough surface.
- Internal injuries, such as damage to organs or internal bleeding, which may not be immediately apparent but can be life-threatening.
Ferry accidents may also suffer from severe psychological trauma, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression. The emotional impact of a life-threatening event can have long-lasting effects on an individual’s mental health, relationships, and ability to function in daily life. Seeking prompt medical attention and mental health support is crucial to address both the physical and psychological consequences of the accident. Our Philadelphia public transportation lawyer of Rand Spear The Accident lawyer are here to help you in a ferry accident.
Potential Types of Compensation
You may be entitled to various compensation for your injuries and losses. The specific types of compensation available depend on the circumstances of the accident and the severity of the injuries sustained. A ferry accident lawyer in Philadelphia may recover the following compensation:
- Medical expenses (past and future)
- Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
If the ferry accident was caused by negligence on the part of the ferry operator, owner, or crew, those responsible may be liable for compensating the injured parties. This can include compensation for economic losses, such as medical bills and lost income, and non-economic damages, like pain and suffering. In cases of wrongful death, the victim’s family may also be entitled to compensation for funeral expenses, loss of support, and loss of companionship.
Philadelphia Ferry Accident Lawyer Near Me (215) 985-2424
Possible Liable Parties
Several parties may be held liable for the resulting injuries and damages in a personal injury case. The ferry company itself could be responsible if the incident was caused by factors such as inadequate maintenance, negligent hiring or training of crew members, or failure to follow safety protocols. The company has a duty to ensure its passengers’ safety and maintain its vessels in proper working condition.
Individual employees, such as the ferry operator or crew members, could also be found negligent if their actions or inactions directly contributed to the accident. For example, if the operator was under the influence of drugs or alcohol or if a crew member failed to properly secure cargo, they may be held personally liable for any resulting injuries or damages.
In some cases, third parties may also share responsibility for a ferry accident. If the accident was caused by a defect in the ferry’s design or manufacturing, the company responsible for producing the vessel or its components could be held liable. If another vessel collided with the ferry due to negligent operation, the owner and operator of that vessel may also be found at fault.
Statute of Limitations in Pennsylvania
In Pennsylvania, individuals injured in a ferry accident have a specific timeframe for filing a legal claim for compensation. The statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including those arising from ferry accidents, is two years from the date of the incident, according to the Pennsylvania General Assembly. However, some exceptions to this rule can shorten the deadline.
If the ferry involved in the accident is owned or operated by a government entity, such as a public transportation authority, the deadline for filing a claim may be much shorter. In these cases, you may need to provide notice of your intent to file your claim within as little as six months after the accident. Ferry accident survivors must consult with an experienced Philadelphia ferry accident attorney as soon as possible to ensure they do not miss any important deadlines.
Failing to file a claim within the applicable statute of limitations can result in the loss of the right to pursue compensation, regardless of the strength of the case. An attorney can help navigate the legal process, gather evidence, and build a strong case on behalf of the injured party. They can also ensure that all necessary documents are filed correctly and in a timely manner, protecting the survivor’s right to seek the compensation they deserve for their injuries and losses.
Contact a Philadelphia Ferry Accident Attorney
Dealing with the consequences of a ferry accident can be daunting, but you’re not alone. A ferry accident attorney in Philadelphia can guide you, allowing you to concentrate on healing while the team manages the legal details of your situation. Prompt action is crucial, so Demand Rand today for a free consultation to get started.
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