If you’ve been in a boating accident in or around New Bedford, you’re probably facing a mix of stress, questions, and paperwork. One big question that might be on your mind is: “Should I handle this claim on my own or hire a lawyer?”
It’s a fair question—and not always an easy one to answer. Let’s break it down so you can figure out what makes the most sense for you.
What Happens After a Boating Accident?
First things first: after a boating accident, you’re likely dealing with injuries, damage to the boat, medical bills, and maybe even lost wages if you’re out of work. On top of that, you’ll have to file insurance claims and possibly speak with other parties involved—or their lawyers.
Seems simple, right? But the process can get complicated fast.
If you’re thinking of going the DIY route with your claim, you might save on attorney fees, but you could also be walking into unfamiliar territory without a guide.
The DIY Route: What You Need to Know
Handling a boating claim yourself might work out okay if:
- The accident was minor
- No one was seriously injured
- Everyone involved agrees on what happened
- The insurance company is being fair (which, let’s be honest, isn’t always the case)
But even then, it’s important to keep your eyes wide open.
Insurance companies have one goal: pay out as little as possible. They have teams of adjusters and lawyers who know how to twist things around to reduce your claim. If you don’t know your rights or the value of your case, you could end up with way less than you deserve.
Why People Turn to a Boating Accident Lawyer in New Bedford
Now, if your accident involved serious injuries, long-term health issues, or any sort of dispute, hiring a New Bedford boating accident lawyer is probably your best move.
A personal injury attorney in New Bedford will know how to:
- Investigate the accident and gather evidence
- Handle all the calls and paperwork
- Talk to the insurance companies on your behalf
- Make sure you’re getting full compensation—not just for medical bills, but also for pain, suffering, and lost wages
They’ve been through this process many times. You haven’t. And that experience can make all the difference.
What Can a New Bedford Personal Injury Lawyer Actually Do for You?
A New Bedford personal injury lawyer won’t just file paperwork and sit back. They’ll take a deep dive into your case, making sure nothing slips through the cracks.
Here’s what they typically handle:
- Getting a copy of the accident report and reviewing it for accuracy
- Interviewing witnesses and possibly bringing in accident reconstruction experts
- Collecting medical records to build your case
- Negotiating with the insurance company (and pushing back when the offer is too low)
- Filing a lawsuit if necessary
And the best part? Most personal injury attorneys in New Bedford work on a contingency fee—meaning they only get paid if you do.
When Should You Definitely Call a Lawyer?
While you can technically handle your own claim, here are some red flags that mean it’s time to call a boating accident lawyer in New Bedford:
- You have serious or long-term injuries
- The other party is denying responsibility
- You’re getting lowball offers from the insurance company
- You’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure about what to do next
If any of those apply, having a New Bedford boating accident lawyer on your side can help protect your rights and give you peace of mind.
The Bottom Line
Boating accidents can turn your life upside down. And while it’s tempting to try and “handle it yourself,” the process can quickly become overwhelming—especially when injuries and insurance companies are involved.
If you’re dealing with anything more than a minor fender bender on the water, reaching out to a personal injury attorney in New Bedford is a smart step. They can help you understand your options, fight for the compensation you deserve, and take a load off your shoulders while you focus on healing.
You don’t have to go through this alone—and you shouldn’t have to.
