Were you injured in a boating accident in Lake Wylie, South Carolina? You may be entitled to compensation.
At Elrod Pope Accident & Injury Attorneys, we offer dedicated support to people harmed on the water. Our attorneys bring over 150 years of combined experience and have recovered over $100 million for clients who suffered serious injuries while boating.
Contact our Lake Wylie boating accident lawyers today at (803) 902-3608 for a free consultation.
How Elrod Pope Accident & Injury Attorneys Can Help After a Boating Accident in Lake Wylie
Boating accidents can be confusing and scary. You need an attorney who understands the law and cares about your recovery.
A Lake Wylie personal injury lawyer from our firm can:
- Investigate the accident scene, gather photos, witness accounts, and law enforcement reports
- Consult with boating safety experts and marine accident investigators
- Identify every party who may be responsible, from operators to maintenance crews or manufacturers
- Work with doctors to fully document injuries, treatment needs, and long-term care
- Handle all communication with insurers, boat owners, or local authorities
- Negotiate aggressively to maximize your compensation
- Take your case to court if a fair settlement cannot be reached
Our experience practicing boating and maritime law in Lake Wylie, South Carolina, sets us apart. We combine legal skills with a personal understanding of how a boating accident can change lives. Call now to start your free case review.
How Common Are Lake Wylie Boating Accidents?
Unfortunately, boating accidents are common. In 2023, the U.S. Coast Guard reported 3,844 recreational boating accidents, resulting in 564 deaths and 2,126 injuries.
South Carolina reports dozens, if not hundreds, of boating accidents a year, and Lake Wylie is no exception. In high-value recreation areas like Lake Wylie, factors like high traffic, shared state lines, and increasing popularity all lead to more accidents. That makes the need for proper legal help even greater.
What Causes Most Lake Wylie Boating Accidents?
Boating accidents often stem from preventable errors.
Common causes include:
- Operator inattention or distraction, especially during busy weekends or holidays
- Boating while intoxicated
- Speeding and reckless driving, especially around marinas, inlets, or crowded areas
- Lack of boating training, as many accidents involve inexperienced operators
- Mechanical failure, such as propeller issues or engine malfunctions
- Adverse weather or low visibility, which can lead to collisions with submerged objects or other boats
Lake Wylie has slow-speed zones near docks, swimming areas, and the North Carolina border. Accidents often happen in those tight spaces or during sudden weather shifts. Understanding local conditions helps us build stronger cases.
Common Injuries Caused by Boating Accidents in Lake Wylie
Injuries from boating accidents can be both physically and emotionally devastating.
Some of the most serious issues we see include:
- Head and brain injuries, due to falls or collisions
- Spinal cord damage, which can lead to paralysis or permanent disability
- Fractures and dislocations, often from being thrown onboard
- Lacerations from propellers, life-threatening without quick medical care
- Drowning or near-drowning, especially when life jackets are not used
- Internal injuries, which may not be immediately obvious
- Wrongful death, when boating negligence leads to fatal outcomes
We understand how these injuries impact families. You may face a long recovery, emotional trauma, and financial stress. Our goal is to help secure compensation that reflects all that you have suffered.
What Kinds of Damages Are Available to Boating Accident Victims?
If you were hurt in a boating accident due to someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to damages (compensation for your losses).
Economic damages cover financial losses like medical bills, long-term care, lost income, and damaged property.
Non-economic damages account for the losses that may not come with a specific receipt. This includes things like emotional distress, permanent scarring, and long-term psychological conditions.
Punitive damages, while rare, may be awarded to punish and deter especially dangerous behavior. South Carolina allows punitive damages in cases involving gross negligence.
How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Boating Accident Lawyer?
At our firm, we work on a contingency fee basis.
That means:
- You pay nothing upfront
- You owe us only if we obtain compensation
- Our fee is a percentage of the money recovered
This fee structure makes legal help accessible. We carry the financial burden of your case while you focus on healing. During your free consultation, we will explain the fee and answer your questions clearly.
How Long Do I Have to File a Lawsuit After a Boating Accident in South Carolina?
The statute of limitations is the deadline to file your claim. In South Carolina, most personal injury lawsuits, including boating accidents, must be filed within three years from the date of the accident.
There are a few limited exceptions, but they are rare. Missing the deadline can result in losing your right to pursue compensation. Early action is vital to protect your rights and preserve important evidence.
Contact our Lake Wylie Boating Accident Lawyers for a Free Consultation
If you were injured in a boating accident on Lake Wylie, you deserve clear answers and a reliable legal team. At Elrod Pope Accident & Injury Attorneys we combine experience, compassion, and aggressive advocacy. We understand how a boating crash can disrupt lives, and we aim to get you full compensation for medical costs, property damage, lost income, and the emotional toll.
Call our Lake Wylie boating accident attorneys today for a free consultation. Let us help you get justice and rebuild your life.