If you were hurt in a boat crash around Knox County, you might feel scared, in pain, and unsure of what to do next. A boat accident lawyer in Knox County, Illinois, can help guide you and protect your rights. At Chicago Injury Lawyer, we help people across Illinois every day after boat accidents. We handle the hard parts so you can focus on getting better.
Knox County has many beautiful spots where people take boats, like Lake Storey Park near Galesburg, Oak Run Lake by Dahinda, and even quiet areas like Lake Bracken or Spoon Lake. Locals and visitors love fishing, tubing, or just spending time with family on the water. But accidents on boats can happen fast. When they do, you need someone on your side.
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 Knox County? Call Now for Help Near Marinas or Docks Like Lake Storey Park
A lot of boating in Knox County happens around Lake Storey, with its boat ramp close to Galesburg, or at Oak Run Marina, which draws people from all over west-central Illinois. Maybe you were out by Knox Highway 12 near Dahinda, getting ready to dock, or enjoying a calm afternoon on Lake Bracken.
But then someone drove too fast, lost control, or was drinking. You ended up with serious injuries. You may be worried about how to pay hospital bills or when you’ll be able to work again.
Next, it’s smart to call us. We know how to move quickly to start your claim. We also talk directly with insurance companies so they don’t trick you into taking a small payment that doesn’t even cover your bills.
Common Causes of Boat Accidents in Knox County Waters
There are many reasons why boat accidents happen in Knox County, especially in busy summer months. Some of the biggest problems we see are:
- Drivers drinking alcohol before steering the boat
- Going too fast in narrow or busy spots, like close to docks at Lake Storey
- Not watching for other boats, people on jet skis, or swimmers
- Sudden storms or wind gusts that can flip a small boat or push it into rocks
- Boats that are not kept up — like bad brakes, weak motors, or broken lights
This means a boat crash often comes down to someone else not taking care. We look at police reports, weather records, and talk to witnesses. That helps us prove who was careless.
Who’s Liable After a Boat Collision in Knox County?
When people hear about a boat crash, they think it’s always the driver’s fault. But that’s not true. It could be the boat owner who didn’t keep it safe, a rental company that failed to check safety gear, or even another boat that caused a dangerous wake.
A boat crash attorney digs into every part of your case. We look at boat inspection records, driver tickets, and local rules on lakes in Knox County. We figure out exactly who is to blame and who needs to pay for your losses.
We also know how insurance adjusters try to pay as little as possible. We don’t let that happen. We push for a full payment so you don’t end up stuck with bills. You can learn more by reading about our boat crash attorney services.
What Compensation Can You Claim After a Boat Accident Near Knox County?
Boat crashes can lead to a lot of bills and problems in your daily life. You might need money for:
- Doctor visits, surgery, and therapy
- Medicine and medical gear
- Lost paychecks if you can’t go back to work right away
- Pain that makes simple things hard, like playing with your kids or sleeping well
- Stress and worry about how long it will take to heal
- Fixing or replacing things that broke in the crash, like fishing gear, phones, or even the boat itself
Why Locals in Knox County Trust Chicago Injury Lawyer After Boating Accidents
People in Knox County trust us because we care about small communities. We’ve helped folks in Galesburg, Knoxville, Abingdon, and rural roads along Knox Highway 9 and 164. We know the judges and local court rules. We also know how insurance companies try to get away with paying as little as possible.
This means we can build a strong case for you. We’ll keep you updated with simple words so you always understand what’s going on. We also work on a “no win, no fee” basis — so you don’t pay us unless we get money for you.
Act Quickly — Illinois Has a Deadline to File Boating Injury Claims in Knox County
Most people in Illinois have just two years from the day of their accident to file a claim. This is called the “statute of limitations.” It sounds like plenty of time, but it’s not. Cases can take months to build. Evidence fades, and witnesses move away or forget details.
This means it’s best to call us right after the crash. We start gathering facts and talking to people right away, so you have the strongest case possible.
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 Knox County
Who’s liable if I’m injured in a boat accident in Knox County?
It might be the driver, the boat owner, or even a rental company. We look at all the facts to see who must pay.
What damages can I claim after a boat crash near Lake Storey, Oak Run Lake, or Spoon Lake?
You might get money for medical bills, lost pay, pain, stress, and broken gear.
How do I file a boat accident claim in Knox County?
Just call us. We handle all the paperwork and insurance talks so you can focus on healing.
Is there a time limit to sue after a boating accident in Knox County?
Yes. Most people have only two years. It’s best to call right now so you don’t lose your chance.
What if the boat owner’s insurance denies my claim in Knox County?
We fight back. We know the tricks insurance companies use, and we push until you get treated fairly.



