Melrose Park residents enjoy boating and fishing on nearby waterways like the Des Plaines River and the Chicago Sanitary and Ship Canal. But boating accidents can happen quickly and cause serious injuries that can change your life. If you were hurt in a boat accident near Melrose Park, you may be facing hospital bills, lost wages, and stress about the future. At Chicago Injury Lawyer, we specialize in helping people injured in boating accidents in Melrose Park and surrounding areas. We handle the legal details while you focus on your recovery.
Knowing Illinois boating laws and local waterways is important after an accident. We have experience with accidents on the Des Plaines River and other Melrose Park waters. We also understand how insurance companies work, and we fight to protect your rights.
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 Melrose Park? Call Now for Help Near Marinas or Docks Like the Des Plaines River or Chicago Sanitary and Ship Canal
Many boating accidents happen near busy boating areas such as the Des Plaines River or the Chicago Sanitary and Ship Canal near Melrose Park. These waterways attract boaters, fishermen, and tourists, increasing the chances of collisions. If you were injured in a boating accident in one of these spots, it’s important to call a lawyer who knows the local waters. We know common accident causes here and how to build a strong case for you.
Common Causes of Boat Accidents in Melrose Park Waters
Boat accidents near Melrose Park can happen for several reasons:
- Operator error: This includes speeding, reckless driving, or boating under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
- Mechanical failure: Engine or steering problems can lead to crashes.
- Unsafe conditions: Bad weather, poor visibility, or crowded waterways may cause accidents.
- Rental issues: Rental companies may fail to maintain boats or provide proper safety instructions.
- Lack of safety gear: Not wearing life jackets or ignoring safety rules can cause serious harm.
By identifying what caused your accident, we can find who is at fault and fight for your compensation.
Who’s Liable After a Boat Collision in Melrose Park?
Liability in boating accidents can be complicated. The responsible party may be:
- The boat operator who caused the accident through negligence.
- The rental company if they rented out a poorly maintained boat or failed to give safety instructions.
- A third party, such as another boat driver or a boat manufacturer, if a defect caused the crash.
Our maritime injury lawyer team investigates the accident carefully. We gather evidence, interview witnesses, and review reports to find out who should pay for your damages. Having a lawyer ensures insurance companies don’t deny your claim unfairly.
What Compensation Can You Claim After a Boat Accident Near Melrose Park?
If you were injured in a boat accident, you might be able to claim compensation for:
- Medical costs: Hospital bills, surgeries, therapy, and future treatment.
- Lost income: Wages lost due to injury and time off work.
- Pain and suffering: Physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident.
- Property damage: Damage to your boat, fishing gear, or personal belongings.
- Loss of earning ability: If injuries affect your ability to work long-term.
We work hard to make sure you get full compensation for all your losses and help you recover financially.
For a free legal consultation, call 312-261-5656Why Locals in Melrose Park Trust Chicago Injury Lawyer After Boating Accidents
People in Melrose Park trust us because we offer personalized service and strong legal support. We understand the stress that comes with boating injuries and how to fight insurance companies. Our experienced lawyers keep clients informed throughout the case. We have a proven record of winning settlements and verdicts for boating injury victims around Chicago.
Act Quickly — Illinois Has a Deadline to File Boating Injury Claims in Melrose Park
Illinois law sets a deadline, called a statute of limitations, to file a lawsuit after a boating accident. You usually have two years from the injury date. Missing this deadline can cost you your right to sue. That’s why it’s important to contact a boat accident lawyer soon after your injury. We help you file claims on time and preserve important evidence.
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 Melrose Park
Who’s liable if I’m injured in a boat accident in Melrose Park?
Liability depends on who was negligent — it could be the boat driver, rental company, or another boater. We investigate the facts.
What damages can I claim after a boat crash near the Des Plaines River or Chicago Sanitary and Ship Canal in Melrose Park?
You can seek compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain, and property damage.
How do I file a boat accident claim in Melrose Park?
Call us. We handle the paperwork, speak to witnesses, and deal with insurance companies for you.
Is there a time limit to sue after a boating accident in Melrose Park?
Yes. Illinois law limits how long you have. Don’t delay contacting a lawyer.
What if the boat owner’s insurance denies my claim in Melrose Park?
If denied, we challenge the insurance company and can take your case to court if needed.



