Your Case is Important

When a Day on the Water Turns Dangerous

From coastal boating along Marina del Rey to recreational outings near Long Beach, time on the water is meant to be enjoyable. However, crowded waterways, operator inexperience, and unsafe conditions can lead to sudden and severe accidents.

When negligence is involved, the consequences can extend far beyond the initial event. Victims may face significant medical bills, missed work, and lasting physical or emotional effects. Habbas & Associates works with clients to understand what happened and pursue accountability through a focused legal strategy.

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A sail boat

What Is a Boating Accident Claim?

A boating accident claim arises when injuries occur due to the negligence or misconduct of a vessel operator, owner, or other responsible party.

As outlined in the U.S. Coast Guard Recreational Boating Statistics, many boating injuries and fatalities each year stem from preventable causes such as operator error or unsafe operation. These claims are designed to identify responsibility and pursue compensation for resulting damages.

Your Case is Important

Call 24/7 and schedule a free consultation with our personal injury lawyers in San Jose.

The Benefits of Working With a Boating Accident Attorney

  • Understanding Maritime and State Laws: Boating accident cases often involve overlapping legal frameworks, including both California law and federal maritime rules. Having experienced guidance ensures these complexities are handled correctly.
  • Accurate Valuation of Damages: Injuries sustained on the water can be serious and long-lasting. A well-developed claim accounts for medical treatment, lost income, and the broader impact on daily life.
  • Investigation of Complex Liability: Determining responsibility may involve multiple parties, such as operators, vessel owners, or rental companies. A thorough investigation helps identify all contributing factors.
  • Protection From Insurance Companies: Insurance carriers may attempt to limit payouts or shift responsibility. Legal representation ensures your claim is handled strategically and fairly.
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Is a Boating Accident Claim Right for You?

If you were injured on the water due to another person’s negligence, you may have grounds to pursue a claim.

Common situations include accidents involving:

  • Collisions with other boats or fixed objects
  • Unsafe rental conditions
  • Reckless or inexperienced boat operators
  • Equipment failure or defective parts
  • Alcohol or drug use while operating a vessel

Even if the fault is unclear, speaking with an attorney can help you understand your options and take steps to protect your rights.

The Boating Accident Process What to Expect

Step One: Case Evaluation and Consultation

Your case begins with a detailed review of the incident, your injuries, and available evidence to determine liability and next steps.

Step Two: Investigation and Evidence Gathering

We gather accident reports, maintenance records, and witness statements to build a clear understanding of how the incident occurred.

Step Three: Claim Development and Negotiation

A claim is prepared outlining your damages, followed by negotiations focused on securing fair compensation.

Step Four: Litigation if Necessary

If a fair resolution is not reached, the case may proceed to litigation with full preparation.

Common Causes of Boating Accidents

Boating accidents in Los Angeles waterways often stem from preventable mistakes rather than unavoidable conditions. High traffic areas along the coast and in marinas can increase risk when proper safety measures are not followed. Common causes include:

  • Alcohol or drug impairment
  • Operator inattention
  • Lack of proper training or experience
  • Mechanical failure
  • Excessive speed
  • Poor weather conditions

The California Division of Boating and Waterways consistently reports that a significant number of accidents occur due to operator negligence and failure to follow basic safety practices.

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Who Can Be Held Liable?

Determining liability in a boating accident can involve multiple parties depending on how the incident occurred. The operator is often responsible for their actions, such as inattention, impairment, or unsafe maneuvering, which led to the accident.

However, liability may extend further. A boat owner may be accountable if the vessel was not properly maintained or was entrusted to someone unqualified.

Rental companies may also be responsible if they had failed to provide adequate safety instructions or equipment. In some cases, manufacturers may be liable if defective parts or design issues contributed to the incident. Passengers may also play a role if their conduct had interfered with safe operation. Identifying all responsible parties is essential to building a strong claim and recovering full compensation.

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Whether you have questions about your case or are ready to get started, our San Jose injury attorneys are ready to help.

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Why Choose Habbas & Associates?

Experience With Complex Injury Cases

Boating accident claims often involve layered liability and serious injuries. Habbas & Associates has handled thousands of cases across California, including those requiring detailed investigation and strategic planning.

A Strong Presence Across California

Our firm understands the challenges that come with high-traffic coastal waterways and the legal nuances that apply to these cases. This insight helps guide a more effective approach.

Personal Attention With Proven Results

Clients receive direct communication and consistent updates throughout the process, backed by a record of substantial recoveries for injury victims.

A Commitment to Doing What Is Right

Every case is approached with preparation and focus, ensuring clients have the support they need to move forward after serious injuries.

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Compensation After a Boating Accident

After a boating accident, the financial and personal impact can be immediate and ongoing. Victims may be entitled to compensation for a range of damages, including:

  • Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
  • Medical expenses
  • Rehabilitation and long-term care
  • Pain and suffering

A thorough claim takes into account both current losses and the potential for future medical needs, missed work, and lasting effects on quality of life. Determining the full value of a case requires careful evaluation and a clear understanding of how the injury will continue to affect you over time.

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Speak With a Los Angeles Boating Accident Attorney

Taking early action after an accident on the water can make a meaningful difference in the outcome of your case. Evidence can become harder to obtain, and delays may impact your ability to recover full compensation.

Contact Habbas & Associates to schedule a free consultation. Our team will take the time to understand your situation, explain your legal options, and begin building a strategy to protect your rights.

Hear It From Our Clients

I first hired Mr. Habbas and his firm to represent me in a car accident case over 10 years ago, and since that time, I have gone back to Mr. Habbas' firm, and I have referred ma...

I first hired Mr. Habbas and his firm to represent me in a car accident case over 10 years ago, and since that time, I have gone back to Mr. Habbas' firm, and I have referred many people to him. These folks immediately respond to you, and they are friendly and trustworthy, and they do everything possible to help you get through tough times. My property damage was handled quickly, and I was very happy with the settlement that I obtained for my injuries.

Daniel L. San Jose, CA 5 out of 5 stars

I was severely hurt in a car accident involving a tractor-trailer that rear-ended my vehicle. Hiring the Habbas & Associates and working with Mr. Habbas and his colleagues was t...

I was severely hurt in a car accident involving a tractor-trailer that rear-ended my vehicle. Hiring the Habbas & Associates and working with Mr. Habbas and his colleagues was the best decision I ever made. I had two prior lawyers that I was extremely unsatisfied with. I couldn't get a return call, and I didn't know what was going on with my case most of the time. I was very distressed because my bills were piling up and I didn't know what I was going to do. Hiring Mr. Habbas changed everything. His staff and colleagues were responsive, courteous, and helpful in every respect. I obtained access to the medical care I needed, and I was operated on by one of the best back surgeons in the area, although I didn't have medical insurance. The insurance company offered $350,000.00 to settle, and the case went to trial. We received a jury award of $2,554,000.00 plus interest and costs. The insurance company appealed only to cave and pay a total of $3,000,000.00. I am grateful to Mr. Habbas and his colleagues for everything they have done for me.

Gordon T. San Jose, CA 5 out of 5 stars

I suffered serious injuries because a janitor left streaks of water on a tile floor in the hallway of a building, which caused me to slip and fall while exiting from one of my p...

I suffered serious injuries because a janitor left streaks of water on a tile floor in the hallway of a building, which caused me to slip and fall while exiting from one of my patients' hospital rooms. The insurance company denied the claim, forcing my attorneys, Habbas & Associates, to file a lawsuit. The Habbas firm was very aggressive and thorough. 

They investigated the accident, and they questioned all important witnesses and gathered all of the evidence required to prove negligence. Although my claim was initially denied, a substantial settlement was obtained by the Habbas firm. Prior to this incident, I had never had a personal injury claim, and I never expected to have to hire an attorney to represent me for something like this. 

Mr. Habbas and his staff are efficient, helpful, responsive, and caring. They make you feel at ease. They explain the process, and they keep you up to date. There is no one else I would prefer to have in my corner to protect me.

Dr. S.E. San Jose, CA 5 out of 5 stars

I was seriously hurt in a car accident that was caused by another motorist, and my airbag didn't deploy. I hired Habbas & Associates to represent me because I wasn't getting any...

I was seriously hurt in a car accident that was caused by another motorist, and my airbag didn't deploy. I hired Habbas & Associates to represent me because I wasn't getting anywhere with the insurance company, and I didn't know how to make a claim against the manufacturer of the vehicle or airbags. Mr. Habbas and his staff were amazing. They fully explained all my rights and what they would do, step by step. I felt relieved in having what I felt was a great team of experienced lawyers and staff on my side.

I suffered severe nerve injuries in my face, and with the help of Mr. Habbas, I was able to acquire treatment from some of the best medical doctors in the State. My case was settled at mediation for approximately $950,000.00 within a short time after a lawsuit was filed. I can't say enough about how much Mr. Habbas and his firm care about their clients. I will always refer anyone I know to them.

Roberta S. San Jose, CA 5 out of 5 stars

Omar Habbas will fight for you and give you the best results out of your case, I know. They take good care of their clients. I’ve never been happier. Thank you to the enti...

Omar Habbas will fight for you and give you the best results out of your case, I know. They take good care of their clients. I’ve never been happier. Thank you to the entire team at Habbas & Associates. You are highly recommended.

Nina Wright 5 out of 5 stars

My wife and I got rear-ended by a DUI male driver in his mid-twenties. We suffered neck injuries and were rushed to the Emergency Dept in Natividad Hospital in Salinas, CA. One ...

My wife and I got rear-ended by a DUI male driver in his mid-twenties. We suffered neck injuries and were rushed to the Emergency Dept in Natividad Hospital in Salinas, CA. One of my children searched for an Injury Lawyer who has a great reputation in this kind of case, and she chose HABBAS & ASSOCIATES in San Jose, CA. 

We met with Mr. Hoang Le, and he explained the process. Mr. Le and the rest of the staff of Habbas & Associates were caring and showed concern for our welfare. It took a while for us to recover from those injuries, but with Mr. Le's assistance and with constant follow-ups with the insurance companies, we felt secure and less stressed. He answered all of our questions every time we had one, and that's why we are so happy and blessed to have Habbas and Associates on our side. I strongly recommend them.

Feliciano & Maria Verzosa Hollister , CA 5 out of 5 stars

Prior to working with Habbas & Associates, I had never worked with an attorney before, and I had never been in a car accident before. A friend of mine suggested I contact th...

Prior to working with Habbas & Associates, I had never worked with an attorney before, and I had never been in a car accident before. A friend of mine suggested I contact them, so, of course, I am going to take a friend’s suggestions, especially since he had great things to say. I was extremely anxious and hesitant to contact an attorney, especially since I have never dealt with such a well-advertised firm as Habbas. 

Laura Ajlouny worked with me through the whole process. From the first phone call, she completely reassured me of my decision and was extremely helpful, patient, and understanding with my claim. She was especially understanding of my anxiousness in dealing with an attorney for the first time. I am so happy to have had her as my attorney. 

The experience I had with Laura was exceptional, and I will 100% refer her and Habbas to anyone seeking an attorney for an accident. She made the experience a great one.

Juan A. 5 out of 5 stars

I had retained the services of Habbas, Nasseri & Associates when my mother-in-law was hit by a car while she was on an evening walk in our neighborhood. She had to undergo s...

I had retained the services of Habbas, Nasseri & Associates when my mother-in-law was hit by a car while she was on an evening walk in our neighborhood. She had to undergo surgery and was wheelchair-bound for some time. The case manager Hoang Le stopped by our home multiple times while my mother-in-law's mobility was restricted and was extremely helpful, responsive, knowledgeable, and easy to work with. He managed everything from getting reports from the Sheriff's office to managing the case paperwork and follow-up with the hospital and ambulance services. 

Mr. Habbas himself called over the phone and explained all the legal options, after which, in due course of time, the case was settled. We are extremely happy with the seamless experience that they provided. All in all, you'd wish you never had to run into any injury situations, but if you do, then Habbas law firm is the place to go.

Neil T. 5 out of 5 stars

Omar Habbas and his team were very professional, efficient, and extremely effective. They fought hard to get the best results on my difficult case and always kept me up to date ...

Omar Habbas and his team were very professional, efficient, and extremely effective. They fought hard to get the best results on my difficult case and always kept me up to date with every step in the entire process. I’m so glad I found this law firm and extremely happy with the results. Very highly recommend them to family and friends. If you or a loved one needs help, don’t hesitate to call them!

AJ B. 5 out of 5 stars

I’m highly impressed by their strong commitment to serving their clients and giving back to the community.

Victoria M. 5 out of 5 stars

In a little over a month, Habbas & Associates secured the best possible settlement 
I could ever get.

Brian T. 5 out of 5 stars

They helped me move forward with my case and get my sense of peace back.

Tiffany H. 5 out of 5 stars

I’m definitely going to recommend Habbas to all of my friends and family.

Young J. 5 out of 5 stars

Trusting my injury case with Habbas & Associates was the best decision ever! They made everything super easy and stress free.

Nate 5 out of 5 stars

I was in a car accident recently, and was referred to Habbas and Associates by my boss. I called and I spoke with Jessica who made everything so easy from the beginning. She kep...

I was in a car accident recently, and was referred to Habbas and Associates by my boss. I called and I spoke with Jessica who made everything so easy from the beginning. She kept me informed throughout the entire process with phone calls and emails. I really appreciate that she gave me the option to pick up my settlement check at either one of their offices or have it mailed to me. If you’re looking for a personal injury attorney, you should call Habbas & Assoc. i’m definitely going to recommend Habbas to all of my friends and family!

Lisa P. 5 out of 5 stars

We weren’t planning to get a lawyer, but on top of my daughter’s injury, the situation was overwhelming. Laura Ajlouny at Habbas was sympathetic, experienced and sha...

We weren’t planning to get a lawyer, but on top of my daughter’s injury, the situation was overwhelming. Laura Ajlouny at Habbas was sympathetic, experienced and sharp! She took care of handling both insurance companies, the police department, and getting all the info needed from the hospital. We ended up getting more compensation for my daughter’s distress than we would have on our own. And we only had to pay for legal fees out of the compensation we received. It was a no brainer. I wholeheartedly recommend Laura and her team.

Sasha S. 5 out of 5 stars

Great law firm they took my personal injury case on when other law firms would not and obtained a very good settlement. Very responsive throughout the process and addressed all ...

Great law firm they took my personal injury case on when other law firms would not and obtained a very good settlement. Very responsive throughout the process and addressed all my concerns in a timely fashion. I give them my highest recommendation.

Hasan A. 5 out of 5 stars

I hired Ms. Ajlouny to represent me as a pedestrian who was struck by a motor vehicle in October 2025. One of the reasons I hired her was because she had over 30 years of experi...

I hired Ms. Ajlouny to represent me as a pedestrian who was struck by a motor vehicle in October 2025. One of the reasons I hired her was because she had over 30 years of experience as a PI attorney. I have done over 30 years of paralegal work and I have learned that some of the best attorneys are those with the most experience. In a little over a month, Ms. Ajlouny secured the best possible settlement I could ever get. Statistics show that having a good PI attorney usually results in settlements that are 3 - 4 X greater than in pro per cases. I'd like to add that Ms. Ajlouny always kept me posted about my case and was very professional as well. Thank you and I hope my review helps.

5 out of 5 stars

Habbas & Associates were great as they helped me through an accident and injury case! We were dealing with Tesla insurance who were very slow but the Habbas attorneys stayed...

Habbas & Associates were great as they helped me through an accident and injury case! We were dealing with Tesla insurance who were very slow but the Habbas attorneys stayed vigilant and I eventually got paid out. Thanks to them and I would definitely recommend using them for your accident/injury claims!!

Abdullah A. 5 out of 5 stars

If you've got into an accident and want a lawyer that actually cares for your well-being then you need to go to Habbas & Associates! I've had an absolutely wonderful experience ...

If you've got into an accident and want a lawyer that actually cares for your well-being then you need to go to Habbas & Associates! I've had an absolutely wonderful experience with them and they were on the ball immediately with scheduling doctors appointment and gathering evidence of the accident. They maintained concerned about my health the whole time and always asked how I was doing during this process. They got me the absolute highest amount they could in my case and didn't let the at faults party defense lawyers talk them into taking substantially less amount. Thank you Habbas and Associates for all your hard work and care!

Ian G. 5 out of 5 stars

Laura Ajlouny and the Habbas & Associates team were supportive, attentive, and truly had my best interests at heart. They guided me through the process with care and profess...

Laura Ajlouny and the Habbas & Associates team were supportive, attentive, and truly had my best interests at heart. They guided me through the process with care and professionalism—and delivered results. Highly recommend!

Anonymous 5 out of 5 stars

If you got into an accident and want a lawyer that actually cares for your well-being then you need to go to Habbas & Associates. 

Ian G. 5 out of 5 stars

We ended up getting more compensation for my daughter’s distress than we would have on our own.

Sasha S. 5 out of 5 stars

Boating Accident Attorneys Los Angeles, CA Frequently Asked Questions

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How long do I have to file a boating accident claim?

In most situations, California law provides a two-year window to file a personal injury claim. Certain circumstances may involve shorter deadlines, so acting promptly is important.

Who is responsible for a boating accident?

Responsibility depends on the facts of the case and may include the operator, boat owner, rental company, or other parties whose actions contributed to the incident.

Do I need an attorney for a boating accident case?

An attorney can help investigate the circumstances, identify responsible parties, and ensure your claim reflects the full scope of your damages.

What if the operator was under the influence?

Operating a vessel under the influence is illegal and often strengthens a claim by clearly establishing negligence.

What types of injuries occur in boating accidents?

Common injuries include fractures, head trauma, spinal injuries, and drowning-related complications.

While you focus on healing, we take care of the rest.

No Cost Consultation | Call 24/7

Give Habbas & Associates a phone call at (323) 894-2449

Whether you have questions about your case or are ready to get started, our San Jose injury attorneys are ready to help.

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