3 injured, 2 presumed dead after boating accident
New Jersey residents are aware that some outdoor activities are primarily done in the warm summer months. This often includes driving with convertible tops down, riding on motorcycles, boating, biking and playing sports outside. These activities are often considered harmless and are done for individual enjoyment or with a group of friends. Although seemingly innocent, these activities have some dangers and risks associated. A negligent person could easily cause a tragic event that could cause personal injuries or even fatalities.
Authorities are still investigating a boating accident that involved a speedboat and a barge. Police suspect that the driver of the boat was intoxicated. A bride-to-be and her fiancé’s best man were both thrown from the boat upon impact. The groom-to-be and two others were seriously injured in the accident. Authorities believe they discovered the body of the young bride-to-be but are continuing their search for the best man.
Six people in all were traveling inside the speedboat, and after the boat collided with the barge, police charged the operator of the boat with vehicular homicide. The charges could increase after the investigation is completed. In addition to criminal charges, the boat operator could face civil liabilities for his negligence. Those injured could file a personal injury claim while the loved ones of those killed in the incident could file a wrongful death claim. Both claims would provide compensation to cover the expenses that resulted from the accident, such as medical expenses, damages, lost wages and pain and suffering.
Having a loved one seriously injured or killed by the negligence of another can be awful to deal with. Family members not only have to cope with their loses or care for their injured loved one, but they also have financial burdens. Filing a claim for compensation can help ease the hardships associated with a tragic accident.
Source: Guardian Express, “Accident on Hudson River Leaves Bride Dead and Best Man Missing,” Veverly Edwards, July 27, 2013
