Boats and personal watercraft are popular forms of recreation and summertime transportation on various lakes and bodies of water throughout Illinois. Although boats and personal watercraft (PWC), which include Wave Runners and Jet Skis, are sources of tremendous enjoyment for teenagers and adults, they can become extremely dangerous if not operated safely or all applicable laws are not followed.
Common distractions such as alcohol, music and general socializing can easily affect a boat operator's judgment and impair his or her ability to operate the vessel safely, which often leads to serious injuries or death.
The Illinois Fox River Chain O'Lakes is the busiest inland recreational waterway per acre in the entire United States. It is only an hour's drive from Chicago, Milwaukee and Rockford, and has over 7,100 acres of water, 15 lakes and 45 miles of river. This "Key West of the Midwest" accommodates every water-borne activity including boating, swimming, tubing, waterskiing, hunting and fishing. (Information from Fox Waterway Agency.)
As an owner of lakefront property on the "Chain O' Lakes" and an avid boat and PWC owner and operator, I am familiar with the "chain," the boating conditions and the sometime dangerous nature of these very congested waterways. Unlike highways and roadways that have very clearly delineated directions of travel with traffic signals and signs, the lakes are wide open. A completely different set of rules applies.
In the event that you have been injured as the result of an accident involving a boat or PWC, it is important to hire an attorney that is knowledgeable of the rules that apply to boating to ensure that your rights are effectively protected. I have personal experience with boats and personal watercraft, and am a knowledgeable boat accident attorney that will aggressively protect your rights and present your best case.
If you are seeking legal representation or would like more information about my services, contact me today to set up your free consultation. You can reach my law office at 847-864-3598.
