Avalon Park is a peaceful spot on Chicago’s South Side, with quiet streets and friendly neighbors. Still, many people here love heading out for weekends on Lake Michigan, nearby marinas, or the Calumet River. Boating is a favorite way to relax with family and friends. Sadly, it only takes one careless moment on the water to change everything. A boat crash can leave you hurt, unable to work, and worried about bills.
At Chicago Injury Lawyer, we stand up for people injured in Illinois boating accidents. We understand the laws, know the local water areas, and handle insurance companies that often try to pay less than you deserve. Our team focuses on making sure your rights are protected and your future is secure. Keep reading to see how a maritime injury lawyer can help you after a serious boat crash.
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 Avalon Park? Call Now for Help Near Marinas or Docks Like Burnham Harbor
Many people from Avalon Park drive just a short distance to popular spots like Burnham Harbor or the nearby marinas off Lake Shore Drive. Whether you were on a friend’s boat on Lake Michigan, rented a pontoon near the Calumet, or took a small tour, one crash can change your entire life. Suddenly, you’re stuck with hospital visits, therapy, and days or weeks away from work.
When you call us, the first thing we do is listen. We want to understand exactly how the accident happened and what problems you’re facing now. Then we step in to handle the paperwork, the insurance adjusters, and any stressful calls. This means you can keep your focus where it belongs — on getting better.
Common Causes of Boat Accidents in Avalon Park Waters
Many boat accidents aren’t “just bad luck.” They’re often caused by someone ignoring basic safety rules. Common reasons people in Avalon Park and nearby areas get hurt on the water include:
- Drunk or high operators: Alcohol or drugs slow reaction times. They also make drivers take risks they wouldn’t on land.
- Speeding: Going too fast makes it easy to crash into other boats or create waves that tip small craft.
- Inexperienced drivers: Many people rent boats without knowing Illinois DNR laws or how to handle a sudden storm.
- Failing to watch out: Boat drivers must watch for swimmers, jet skis, or smaller boats. Looking at a phone or chatting can lead to disaster.
- Poor maintenance: Rental companies sometimes skip safety checks. A broken steering system or engine failure could easily cause a crash.
Knowing what caused your crash helps prove who was careless and why they should pay for your injuries.
Who’s Liable After a Boat Collision in Avalon Park?
Liability means figuring out who was at fault and who should pay. In boating accidents, this could include:
- The operator of your boat if they were drinking, distracted, or speeding.
- Another boater who crashed into you.
- A rental company that gave you a poorly maintained boat.
We dig deep into your case. We review police reports, talk to witnesses, and work with boating experts. Our goal is to build strong proof of what went wrong and who caused it.
This is also why working with a maritime injury lawyer matters. We understand these cases, the local laws, and how to fight insurance companies that try to pay you as little as possible.
For a free legal consultation, call 312-261-5656What Compensation Can You Claim After a Boat Accident Near Avalon Park?
A bad boat crash can hurt more than just your body. It might mean you can’t go back to work, you’re facing big hospital bills, or your family is stressed trying to keep up. Under Illinois law, you may be able to get money for:
- Medical bills: This includes ER visits, follow-up appointments, surgeries, therapy, and any future treatment you’ll need.
- Lost wages: If you had to miss work while recovering, or if you can’t return to the same job at all.
- Pain and suffering: For the physical pain and the emotional strain after a serious accident.
- Property damage: For example, damage to your personal boat or items that were on board.
Our team makes sure insurance companies see the full impact of your injuries. We work with your doctors to show why your life has changed and why you need a fair settlement. If insurers refuse to do the right thing, we’re prepared to take them to court.
Why Locals in Avalon Park Trust Chicago Injury Lawyer After Boating Accidents
People in Avalon Park trust us because we’re local, experienced, and truly care about your outcome. We know the marinas where many boat crashes start, the insurance adjusters who handle these claims, and the Illinois boating laws that protect you.
We also keep things simple. We explain your rights in plain language and make sure you know what’s happening every step of the way. That’s why many say we’re the best boat injury attorney near Avalon Park for boating crash cases. Our focus is always on getting you the most money possible so you can move on with life.
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 Avalon Park
Who’s liable if I’m injured in a boat accident in Avalon Park?
Usually, the careless boat operator is at fault. But sometimes it’s a rental company that didn’t maintain their boat, or another boater who crashed into you. We look at every detail to find out who should pay.
What damages can I claim after a boat crash near Burnham Harbor or the Calumet River?
You can seek money for hospital bills, therapy, lost wages, pain and suffering, and fixing any damaged property. Each case is different, so we look closely at how the crash affected your life.
How do I file a boat accident claim in Avalon Park?
The best first step is to call a lawyer who knows Illinois boat accident laws. We handle insurance claims, gather evidence, and fight for you in court if needed.
Is there a time limit to sue after a boating accident in Avalon Park?
Yes. Illinois sets strict deadlines, called statutes of limitations. If you wait too long, you could lose your chance to recover money forever. That’s why it’s smart to call us right away.
What if the boat owner’s insurance denies my claim in Avalon Park?
It happens a lot. Insurance companies often look for reasons to pay less. We step in, build a strong case, and push for what you truly deserve — even if it means going to trial.



