Many people in Havana, Illinois, love spending time on the water. Living near the Illinois River means boating, fishing, or just relaxing on a pontoon is a big part of life here. Families and friends often spend weekends exploring the river or taking day trips to local marinas. But sometimes, a fun day turns into a serious accident. You could end up with painful injuries, growing hospital bills, and worries about how you’ll pay for everything. That’s why people in Havana call Chicago Injury Lawyer. We help people hurt in boating and watercraft accidents fight for the money they need to recover and move forward.
Our team focuses only on injury cases. We understand how a boat crash can change your entire life. From the first phone call, we handle insurance companies, paperwork, and build a strong case to show who was at fault so you can focus on healing.
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 Havana? Call Now for Help Near the Illinois River, Marinas, or Local Docks
People in Havana spend a lot of time on the Illinois River. It’s a favorite place for boating, fishing tournaments, and enjoying time with family. Local marinas and docks can get crowded, especially on warm weekends. This means accidents are more likely. If another boater was drinking, speeding, or simply not paying attention, a crash could leave you with broken bones, head injuries, or back problems that keep you from working.
It’s smart to call a lawyer right after a boating accident. We know these local waters and how busy they get. Acting quickly helps us gather witness statements, boating records, and other important proof before it’s lost.
Common Causes of Boat Accidents in Havana and Nearby Illinois Waters
Most boat accidents near Havana happen because someone ignored basic safety rules. Some of the most common reasons include:
- Boating under the influence: Many people think it’s fine to drink while driving a boat. But it’s just as dangerous — and illegal — as drinking and driving a car.
- Speeding or reckless boating: Ignoring slow zones, cutting too close to other boats, or weaving through heavy traffic often leads to crashes.
- Inexperienced boaters: Not knowing how to handle waves, sudden weather, or steering mistakes causes many accidents.
- Poor maintenance: Rental companies or boat owners who skip repairs put everyone at risk. Faulty steering, weak brakes, or missing safety gear makes accidents more likely.
- Fast-changing weather: Storms can move in quickly on the Illinois River. Drivers caught without a plan may lose control.
Our team looks into all these details. We check weather records, talk to witnesses, and review Illinois Department of Natural Resources (DNR) boating reports. This helps us prove exactly what went wrong and who was careless.
Who’s Liable After a Boat Collision in Havana?
One of the biggest questions after a boat crash is, “Who pays for this?” In many cases, it’s the person driving the boat. If they were speeding, drinking, or ignoring safety laws, they can be held responsible. Sometimes, a rental company also shares blame. If they didn’t keep the boat safe or failed to give proper instructions, they might owe you money, too.
It could also be another boat driver who caused the crash by steering recklessly or breaking boating laws. In rare situations, the boat maker might be at fault if a part broke and caused the accident. As your boat accident attorney, we look at every angle. We gather strong evidence, prove negligence, and push insurance companies to pay what you’re really owed.
For a free legal consultation, call 312-261-5656What Compensation Can You Claim After a Boat Accident Near Havana?
If you were hurt in a boating accident near Havana, you might get more money than you expect. A serious injury affects every part of your life. You could be owed compensation for:
- Medical bills: From ER visits and surgeries to therapy and long-term treatment.
- Lost pay: If you can’t work now or have to switch to a lower-paying job because of your injuries.
- Pain and suffering: This means both the physical pain and the emotional stress that follow an accident.
- Property damage: Like a ruined phone, damaged fishing equipment, or costs to fix your own boat.
Insurance companies often try to settle quickly and for far less than you deserve. They hope you’ll take the first check before you know how much care you’ll really need. We build strong cases using your medical records, expert opinions, and proof of how your life has changed. This helps us push for fair payments.
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 Havana
Who’s liable if I’m injured in a boat accident in Havana?
Usually, it’s the person driving the boat. But rental companies, other boaters, or even the boat manufacturer could be at fault if they failed to keep things safe.
What damages can I claim after a boat crash on the Illinois River or at local marinas?
You might get money for hospital bills, lost income, pain, therapy, and to repair or replace damaged property.
How do I file a boat accident claim in Havana?
It starts by calling a lawyer. We’ll collect your medical records, talk to witnesses, file insurance claims, and if needed, take your case to court.
Is there a time limit to sue after a boating accident in Havana?
Yes, so it’s smart to call soon. We’ll protect your rights and keep your case on track.
What if the boat owner’s insurance denies my claim?
If they refuse to pay, we gather stronger evidence and fight back. We’re ready to take your case to court if that’s what it takes.



