Boating in Washington County is a favorite way to spend warm days. But accidents on the water can change your life in seconds. A boat crash can leave you with painful injuries, large hospital bills, and days or weeks of missed work. Many families in Washington County rely on a trusted Chicago Injury Lawyer to handle these tough times. We are here to answer your questions, guide you through the legal steps, and help you get the money you deserve. Next, let’s see why boat accidents happen, who might be responsible, and what kinds of costs you can recover.
Call us now at 312-261-5656 for a free, no-obligation consultation, available 24/7. With our no-fee-unless-we-win policy, you can focus on your recovery while we handle the rest.
Injured in a Boat Crash in Washington County?
Many people in Washington County enjoy boating near Carlyle Lake or at smaller docks. But accidents can happen anywhere. A boat might crash into another boat, or someone could slip on a wet dock and hit their head. When this happens, you may face big hospital bills and might not be able to work for a while. This adds stress when you’re already trying to heal. When you’re hurt near Carlyle Lake Marina or any local dock, it’s smart to call us right away. We can explain your options and help you start getting back on your feet.
Common Causes of Boat Accidents in Washington County Waters
Boat accidents often happen because people fail to be careful. In Washington County, common reasons include boat drivers drinking or using drugs, driving too fast, or steering too close to other boats. Sometimes bad weather hits with heavy rain or strong winds, and the driver doesn’t slow down. Other times, something breaks on the boat, like the steering or lights. Crowded boats can also be risky, because too many people make them unstable. Even when you plan a safe trip, someone else’s careless choice can turn a fun outing into a painful event. If a drunk boat operator in Washington County caused your crash, it’s their mistake, not yours.
Who’s Liable After a Boat Collision in Washington County?
It is very important to find out who is at fault after a boat crash. Most of the time, it is the person driving the boat that hit you. But if you were on a rented boat, the rental company might be responsible, especially if the boat was unsafe or they failed to explain rules. Sometimes another guest on the boat does something reckless and causes an accident. This means there can be more than one person or company to blame. A skilled lawyer for boat accident will investigate what happened, find who is truly at fault, and work to make sure they pay for your losses.
For a free legal consultation, call 312-261-5656What Compensation Can You Claim After a Boat Accident Near Washington County?
When you are injured in a boat accident, the costs can quickly add up. You might have to pay hospital or doctor bills, buy medicine, or go to therapy. You could lose money if you miss work or can’t do your job anymore. You also deserve money for pain, stress, or how the accident changed your daily life. If the crash broke your boat or other property, you can ask for repair or replacement costs too. This means you don’t have to handle these bills on your own when someone else caused your injuries. We collect strong evidence to show exactly how the accident has hurt you.
Why Locals in Washington County Trust Chicago Injury Lawyer After Boating Accidents
People across Washington County count on us because we take time to listen. We explain things using simple words so you feel confident in every choice. Families in towns like Nashville, IL, and around Carlyle Lake pick us because we understand Illinois boating laws and know how to prove what happened. We also work closely with local doctors and experts to show how serious your injuries are. This means you have a team on your side who is focused on your story and making sure you are treated fairly.
EXCELLENT Based on 315 reviews Posted on Kat ChowTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I can't stress enough how grateful I am that we hired Paul Marriett to help us with our case. His communication was not only timely and thorough but also understandable. He did a phenomenal job guiding us through the process and preparing us for the courtroom, which put our minds at ease. Once our hearing came, he did his job flawlessly and won our case. Additionally, he was quite pleasant to speak with when our judge was behind schedule and while the court was in recess. I highly recommend him to anyone needing an attorney and will reach out again in the future should we ever need representation.Posted on angel martinezTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Very professional and helpful! I would recommend to all my friends and family to hire him. He was eager to know the circumstances of my case even before I hired him. I did contact other lawyers and offices, but none came close to the comfort I felt while talking to Mr. Marriertt, I really felt like he cared about the situation I found myself in. He deserves 6 stars for going above and beyondPosted on John HarkerTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Paul helped me out with a traffic citation. The communication was great as he walked me through my options and what to expect with my court date and plea deal. 10/10 service. Highly recommended. Thanks again, Paul.Posted on Ryan H.Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Paul was very professional, sharp dressed and clearly a notch above most in the courtroom. He understood my plight and refused to be bullied. Knows the law to a T....I'm keeping him on speed dial. I think u will trust him too.Posted on Scorpion SolarTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. BEYOND satisfied with the services & representation! The communication & efforts have been above & BEYOND! Amazing price as well for a minor traffic hiccup. 11/10 recommend & prefer this firm for any future occurrences!!! Very transparent, & puts in the effort to help you!!!Posted on Zak GreenTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. If you are needing a lawyer in Rockford or the surrounding areas this is the guy you need to get ahold of! Do not waste your time or money going to someone else.... From the very start Mr. Marriett was on top of his job. I called several lawyers before him and he was the first to thoroughly explain everything I needed to hear without even asking him to. The definition of a great lawyer. Each time we went to court he always let me know ahead of time either in person or via phone what the expectations or options would be going in. I highly recommend Paul Marriett if you are in need of a lawyer!Posted on KelliTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Explained everything well. Kept us informed. I'm glad we found him.Posted on bruce paulsonTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I am very late on sharing my feedback only because I’m google illiterate. Attorney Merriett did a very smart excellent job for me and not real expensive considering how stupid I was to get in trouble . Thank you! For all your professionalism! Bruce P.Posted on Austin “i like trains” ArveyTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Great service and a reliable lawyer. I'm glad we got him instead of getting anyone else. :)
Get Directions to Our Law Office
Visit us in Chicago for a free consultation
- Address: 101 N Wacker Drive, Suite 100B, Chicago, IL 60606 Get Directions
- Driving Directions: If you’re traveling from The Loop, head north on Wacker Drive. Our office is between Lake and Randolph Streets, easily accessible from I-90 and I-94.
- Parking Options: Convenient parking is available at nearby garages, such as the Wacker & Monroe Garage, and there are metered spaces along N Wacker Drive.
- Landmarks Nearby: Our office is just steps from the Chicago Riverwalk and close to The Loop, making it a convenient location for visitors.
Contact Us
Chicago Injury Lawyers
101 N Wacker Drive, Suite 100B
Chicago, IL 60606
Phone: (312) 261-5656
Email: contact@chicagoinjurylawyer.com
Hours: 24/7

FAQs — Illinois Boat Accident Laws in Washington County
Who’s liable if I’m injured in a boat accident in Washington County?
Most often, the boat driver is at fault, especially if they were careless or distracted. But if you were on a rented boat, the rental company might also be to blame. Sometimes, another guest might do something risky that leads to the crash.
What damages can I claim after a boat crash near Carlyle Lake in Washington County?
You can ask for money to pay medical bills, lost wages, pain, emotional stress, and repairs or replacement if your property was damaged.
How do I file a boat accident claim in Washington County?
Call us. We will collect police and medical reports, talk to any witnesses, and handle all the court papers for you.
Is there a time limit to sue after a boating accident in Washington County?
Yes. In Illinois, you usually have two years from the day of the accident to file a lawsuit. Waiting too long could mean you lose your chance.
What if the boat owner’s insurance denies my claim in Washington County?
Sometimes insurance companies try to avoid paying. If they do, we build a strong case with evidence and can take them to court to fight for what you need.



