If you were in a boat accident in McDonough County, Illinois, you may feel worried or unsure about what happens next. Many people in this part of Illinois love spending time on the water. Places like Argyle Lake State Park and Spring Lake draw local families and friends who fish, paddle, or take small boats out on weekends. But sometimes fun trips turn into emergencies. A crash can leave you hurt, with hospital bills, unable to work, and unsure who pays. At Chicago Injury Lawyer, we understand that boating injuries are not like car wrecks. Different laws apply to water, and insurance can be tricky. We’re here to guide you through the legal maze and help you focus on getting better.
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 McDonough County? Local Support Near Marinas or Docks Like Argyle Lake
In McDonough County, people enjoy time near the boat launches at Argyle Lake or smaller docks by Spring Lake just outside Macomb. These are common spots for fishing boats, pontoons, and small kayaks. But not every boater follows the rules. Some people drink before steering. Others get distracted by phones or try to show off by speeding near quiet fishing areas. Many accidents happen right where boats meet up by local docks, where it can get crowded. When someone else’s mistake on the water causes a crash, it helps to have a legal team that knows McDonough County, the nearby parks, and how boaters use these waters.
Common Causes of Boat Accidents in McDonough County Waters
Many boat accidents around McDonough County start because someone didn’t make safe choices. Often, drivers drink alcohol and think it’s fine because they’re not on the road. Others speed past fishing boats or ignore “no wake” signs. Sudden storms on lakes like Argyle can catch people off guard and push boats into rocks or other boats. Sometimes rental companies don’t keep up with repairs. A broken motor or steering problem can mean you crash into a dock or tip over. If you got hurt because someone was careless or because a company failed to keep equipment safe, you shouldn’t be left paying the costs alone.
Who’s Liable After a Boat Collision in McDonough County?
A big question after a boat crash is who pays for your bills. If a boat driver was drinking or didn’t watch out, they might be at fault. If you rented a boat and it had problems the company should have fixed, the rental company might be responsible. Sometimes, it’s even another person on board who did something risky, like jumping around and knocking the driver off balance. We look at police reports, talk to people who saw what happened at places like Argyle Lake or Spring Lake, and review maintenance records. This helps prove who must pay for your hospital costs, missed work, or long-term pain. You can also learn how fault works by visiting our boat crash attorney page.
For a free legal consultation, call 312-261-5656What Compensation Can You Claim After a Boat Accident Near McDonough County?
A boat crash can bring costs that add up fast. You might have an ambulance ride to McDonough District Hospital in Macomb, doctor visits, therapy, or even future surgeries. If you work on a farm outside Good Hope, run a small shop in Macomb, or have a job that needs heavy lifting, being hurt can stop you from earning money. Pain or fear might keep you from simple joys, like fishing at Argyle Lake or paddling with your family. In McDonough County, we help people get money for:
- Hospital bills, follow-up care, and therapy
- Paychecks you lost by missing work or losing your job
- Pain and worry that change your daily life
- Fixing or replacing your boat and gear
Why Locals in McDonough County Trust Chicago Injury Lawyer After Boating Accidents
People in McDonough County pick us because we treat clients like neighbors. We’re from Illinois and understand what weekends at Argyle Lake or fishing trips on Spring Lake mean to local families. Here’s why so many trust us with their boat injury cases:
- We’ve handled many boat accident claims and know how to prove someone else made a mistake
- We explain everything in plain words so you’re never confused
- You pay nothing unless we win money for you
- We keep you updated so you’re never left wondering what’s next
This means you can stay focused on your health or family while we handle the insurance companies and legal steps.
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. :)
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- 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 McDonough County
Who’s liable if I’m injured in a boat accident in McDonough County?
It could be a boat driver who acted carelessly, a rental company that skipped repairs, or someone else on the water. We look closely at what happened to figure it out.
What damages can I claim after a boat crash near Argyle Lake or Spring Lake in McDonough County?
You can get money for doctor bills, lost paychecks, pain, and fixing your boat or gear.
How do I file a boat accident claim in McDonough County?
Our team gathers records, talks to witnesses, deals with insurance, and explains every step so you always know what’s happening.
Is there a time limit to sue after a boating accident in McDonough County?
Yes. Illinois law sets a firm deadline. If you wait too long, your chance may be lost. Starting early helps keep your right to fair payment safe.
What if the boat owner’s insurance denies my claim in McDonough County?
Don’t worry. We handle insurance disputes all the time. If they say no, we know how to push back and can take your case to court if needed.



