Monday, January 16, 2012

Three Fatalities in Key West Offshore Powerboat Races


The first fatal accident happened on November 8 at the Key West World Championship races has raised questions about how sturdy the cockpit capsules are that protect the racers. The capsule may have failed from either a substandard canopy or a substandard job of attaching and reinforcing it. Although this accident is still under investigation, families of the victims may wish to consult an experienced attorney to determine if they can receive compensation for damages.

On November 11, another racer was critically injured when a 38-foot catamaran rolled over twice during a turn in the final lap of the race. Medical examiners said the cause of death was from drowning, not injuries resulting from the accident.  This victim’s family has filed a wrongful death lawsuit claiming emergency crews with Super Boat International (SBI) were negligent and didn't respond in time.

The lawsuit claims that it took three and a half minutes for the trained divers to rescue him, but it was too late.  Rescue boats are always nearby in case of an accident.  Their job is to be the first responders and a rescue helicopter is the second responder.  In this case, the rescue boat did not respond causing the delayed rescue by the helicopter team.  Michael Allweiss, director of the American Power Boat Association and the plaintiff’s attorney, said that the incompetence and lack of professional training by the rescue boat divers caused the man to drown.

If you have been injured or lost a loved one in a boat racing accident, you may have the right to compensation for your injuries or loss. Filing a lawsuit will depend on a number of factors; it is important to contact an attorney who specializes in these types of cases.

Often times, a boat racing accident lawsuit is difficult to prove and takes years to settle.  These cases will need to take into account the negligence of the defendant - failing to adhere to safety guidelines, failure to provide adequate medical care after an injury, or failure to correct an unsafe working condition.

Lawsuit funding can give plaintiffs the money they need now to cover immediate bills and expenses.  There are no upfront payments, no credit checks, no employment requirements, no monthly payments, and no repayment if you lose your case; litigation funding is 100% RISK-FREE for plaintiffs. You only repay the advance if, and when, you win your case. To find out if your boat accident lawsuit qualifies for lawsuit funding, call Lawsuit Financial or apply online.

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