Many people in Ford Heights love spending time on the water. A boat trip should be fun and safe. But sometimes accidents change everything. If you were hurt in a boat crash near Ford Heights, you may not know where to turn. You are not alone. Our team of Illinois boating attorneys is here to guide you. We work hard to protect your rights and get you fair money for what you lost.
Next, we’ll explain how these accidents happen, who might be at fault, what money you can claim, and why so many people in Ford Heights trust us with their boating injury cases.
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.
Hurt in a Boat Crash in Ford Heights? Call Now for Help Near Sauk Lake or Lansing Marina
Families and friends in Ford Heights often drive to Sauk Lake or head toward the Lansing Marina to enjoy sunny days on the water. Sadly, a fun day can turn into a disaster if a boat driver is careless. Maybe they drank too much, ignored safety rules, or sped through a busy area. The crash that follows can cause broken bones, head injuries, or worse.
Medical bills pile up fast. You might not be able to work for weeks or months. That means lost paychecks and added stress at home. This is why it’s so important to call a lawyer right after your accident. We take care of talking to insurance companies and gathering proof so you can focus on getting better.
Common Causes of Boat Accidents in Ford Heights Waters
Boat crashes around Ford Heights are often caused by people making poor choices. Some common reasons include:
- Drunk driving: Alcohol slows reaction time and clouds judgment. Many boat accidents happen because someone drank too much before driving.
- Speeding: Going too fast on the water means less time to steer away from danger.
- Ignoring the weather: A sudden storm on Sauk Lake or nearby rivers can flip boats or push them into docks.
- Bad maintenance: If brakes, lights, or engines fail, accidents happen. Rental companies must keep boats safe for use.
These accidents are not always random. Most happen because someone failed to act responsibly.
Who’s Liable After a Boat Collision in Ford Heights?
Figuring out who must pay for your losses is called liability. In many Ford Heights boat crashes, the driver of the boat is at fault. But other people or businesses might also be to blame. For example:
- A rental company may have given out a boat that was unsafe.
- The maker of the boat might have sold it with dangerous defects.
- Another person on the water may have acted carelessly.
Our job is to look at every detail and find out who is responsible. That way, we can demand they pay for the harm done to you.
For a free legal consultation, call 312-261-5656What Compensation Can You Claim After a Boat Accident Near Ford Heights?
If you were hurt in a boating accident, you may be able to get money for:
- Medical bills: from the hospital, rehab, and future treatments
- Lost income: if you can’t work now or might not work later
- Pain and stress: for what you’ve gone through
- Damage to your boat or belongings
Insurance companies may try to pay you less than you deserve. We push them to offer fair settlements. If they refuse, we are ready to take them to court and fight for you.
Why Locals in Ford Heights Trust Our Legal Team After Boating Accidents
People in Ford Heights and nearby towns trust us because we care about each client. We have helped many families across Cook County. We know Illinois boating laws and how to deal with tricky insurance adjusters. Most importantly, we take time to explain your options in plain words. You will never be left guessing.
If you want to learn more about how we handle cases like yours, visit our Ford Heights boat injury attorney page.
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. :)
Act Quickly — Illinois Has a Deadline to File Boating Injury Claims in Ford Heights
Illinois law gives most people only two years from the date of a boat accident to file a lawsuit. If you wait too long, you may lose your chance to get any money at all. That’s why it’s so important to call us soon after your crash. We’ll keep track of all deadlines and make sure your case is filed on time.
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 Ford Heights
Who’s liable if I’m hurt in a boat crash in Ford Heights?
It might be the driver, a rental company, or even the maker of the boat. We find out who is responsible, so they pay, not you.
What damages can I claim after a boat wreck near Sauk Lake or Lansing Marina?
You may get money for doctor bills, lost pay, pain, and property damage. We work hard to get you all that you deserve.
How do I file a boat accident claim in Ford Heights?
Call us. We’ll gather proof, handle insurance talks, and take care of court papers so you don’t have to.
Is there a time limit to sue after a boating accident in Ford Heights?
Yes. You usually have two years from the date of the accident. Waiting too long can mean losing your right to money.
What if the boat owner’s insurance says no in Ford Heights?
We fight back. If needed, we’ll take them to court and stand by you every step of the way.



