Barge, Boat Collision Kills 3
A boat in Belvedere Bay in Lake St. Clair crashed into a barge, killing three.
The 120 foot barge had lights on it and was being used for a nearby dredging project. Since the incident, the barge has been moved and tests concerning the boat's speed and if the driver had been drinking at the time of the barge crash are still pending.
When determining liability in a case such as that above, it is important to consider all factors involved in the scene, even those that may indirectly contribute to the accident. In the foregoing case the pending investigation dealing with the boaters speed and alcohol consumption could greatly impact determining liability, as well as the barge's location.
If the boat operator were found to have been intoxicated, fault may be determined on such information, possibly making him liable for damages. However the barge owners could also be found liable. Although the barge owners did not necessarily act in violation of the law, ultimately their barge placement would need to be evaluated to determine if they are liable in this accident at all. For instance, if the barge were in an area known to be heavy with pleasure boat traffic, a court may find that such barge placement should have been avoided by a reasonable person.
Barges are commonly used for transporting heavy goods by river or canal, but they can also pose many potential hazards, resulting in accidents and severe injuries. Hazardous barge conditions like dirty bull rails and disorganized and cluttered decks can result in unnecessary workplace risks.
If you are involved in a barge accident, it is crucial that you contact an experienced barge accident lawyer as soon as possible. As an experienced attorney in Maritime Law, we are happy to discuss your case with you and answer any questions you may have. If requested, we will immediately and aggressively take action on your behalf.
The call and consultation are free. I can be reached 24 hours a day at 314.322.8515 or toll free at 1.800.500.INJURY (4658). Call me personally and I will answer all the questions and concerns you may have. There is no fee unless we recover for you.
If you don't want to call or you can't call, you can email me at john@pagecagle.com. I look forward to speaking with you and helping you through these trying times. You can also visit www.BargeAccidentLawGroup.com for more information.
