South Boulevard in Evanston is a charming area close to Lake Michigan, where locals enjoy a mix of calm neighborhoods and easy lake access. Many people here spend their weekends on the water, taking out small boats, joining friends on pontoons, or renting vessels from local marinas. But boating isn’t always as safe as it seems. All it takes is one careless moment or a poorly maintained boat to turn a relaxing day into a nightmare. A serious boating accident can leave you badly hurt, stuck with big hospital bills, and worried about how your family will get by.
At Chicago Injury Lawyer, we help people in South Boulevard, Evanston, and across Illinois after boating crashes. We know the local marinas and lakefront spots, understand Illinois boating laws, and deal directly with insurance companies that often try to pay less. Most importantly, we’re here to protect your rights and fight to get you every dollar you need to recover. Keep reading to see why hiring a maritime injury lawyer could be the best move you make after a boat accident.
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 South Boulevard, Evanston? Call Now for Help Near Marinas Like Wilmette Harbor or Dempster Street Launch
Many residents of South Boulevard, Evanston, enjoy spending time at nearby docks, like Wilmette Harbor, or launching from Dempster Street Beach. It’s a short trip to enjoy Lake Michigan’s open water. But whether you’re on a rented sailboat, a family pontoon, or just cruising along the shore, accidents happen fast. A careless boat operator, sudden collision, or faulty rental can send you straight to the ER.
When you call us, we start by listening. We want to understand exactly how your accident happened and how it’s impacting your daily life. Then we take over the tough work — handling insurance paperwork, making calls to adjusters, and gathering strong evidence. This means you can stay focused on healing while we work to get you the money you deserve.
Common Causes of Boat Accidents in South Boulevard, Evanston Waters
Boating may seem simple, but it has serious risks. Many crashes aren’t just “bad luck.” They happen because someone ignored safety rules. Around South Boulevard, Evanston, and other spots on Lake Michigan, common reasons people get hurt include:
- Drunk or drugged operators: Alcohol and drugs slow reaction times and lead to risky decisions. Many Illinois boating crashes involve drinking.
- Speeding: Going too fast, especially near docks or crowded waters, makes it hard to steer away from danger.
- Not paying attention: Looking at a phone or chatting with friends instead of scanning the water can lead to collisions with other boats, swimmers, or obstacles.
- Inexperience: Many renters don’t know how to handle sudden storms, large wakes, or busy marinas.
- Poor maintenance: Some rental companies skip safety checks. A boat with steering or engine problems is a disaster waiting to happen.
Finding out what caused your crash helps us prove who was careless — and who needs to pay for your injuries.
Who’s Liable After a Boat Collision in South Boulevard, Evanston?
A big question after a boat crash is, “Who pays for all of this?” In Evanston, it often comes down to who failed to act safely. Liability might rest with:
- The driver of your boat if they were drinking, speeding, or distracted.
- Another boater who caused the crash by ignoring the rules.
- A rental company that didn’t keep its boats safe or failed to show renters how to use them properly.
Our team looks at every detail. We review police or Coast Guard reports, talk to witnesses, and bring in boating experts when needed. This helps us build a strong case that clearly shows who was at fault.
That’s also why working with a maritime injury lawyer matters so much. We know Illinois boating laws, understand how insurance companies try to cut down your payout, and fight to get you every dollar you deserve.
For a free legal consultation, call 312-261-5656What Compensation Can You Claim After a Boat Accident Near South Boulevard, Evanston?
A serious boat accident doesn’t just hurt your body. It can turn your life upside down. You might be facing large hospital bills, weeks or months off work, and stress that affects your entire family. Under Illinois law, you may be able to claim money for:
- Medical bills: ER visits, surgeries, therapy, and any future care you’ll need.
- Lost pay: Paychecks you missed while recovering or long-term loss if you can’t return to the same work.
- Pain and suffering: For the physical pain and emotional impact of your accident.
- Property damage: If your personal boat or gear was damaged in the crash.
Our team works closely with your doctors and financial experts to show exactly how this accident changed your life. This helps us demand fair payment from insurance companies. If they refuse, we’re always ready to take them to court.
Why Locals in South Boulevard Evanston Trust Chicago Injury Lawyer After Boating Accidents
People in South Boulevard Evanston, trust us because we’re experienced, local, and truly care. We know where these crashes often happen — from Wilmette Harbor to small Lake Michigan launches. We also understand Illinois Department of Natural Resources boating rules and how insurance adjusters look for excuses to pay less.
Most importantly, we keep everything simple and clear. We explain your rights in plain words, return your calls fast, and handle the tough talks with insurance companies so you don’t have to. Many clients say we’re the best boat injury attorney near South Boulevard, Evanston, because we fight hard for your future, not just for a quick settlement.
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 South Boulevard, Evanston
Who’s liable if I’m injured in a boat accident in South Boulevard, Evanston?
It depends on who acted carelessly. That could be the driver of your boat, another boater, or a rental company that failed to keep the boat safe. We look at every angle to figure out who should pay.
What damages can I claim after a boat crash on Lake Michigan or local docks?
You can ask for money to cover hospital bills, lost pay, pain and suffering, and repairs or replacement of damaged property. We look at every way this accident affected your life.
How do I file a boat accident claim in South Boulevard, Evanston?
Start by calling a lawyer who knows Illinois boat injury laws. We handle insurance paperwork, gather solid evidence, and fight for a fair payout. If needed, we’re ready to take your case to trial.
Is there a time limit to sue after a boating accident in South Boulevard, Evanston?
Yes. Illinois law sets strict deadlines. If you wait too long, you could lose your right to get any money. That’s why it’s smart to call us as soon as possible after your accident.
What if the boat owner’s insurance denies my claim in South Boulevard, Evanston?
This happens often. Insurance companies look for reasons to pay less or deny claims completely. We build a strong case and keep pushing until you get fair compensation — even if it means going to court.



