Lake Lanier is one of Georgia’s most popular boating, fishing, and family recreation destinations. Each year, thousands head to its waters for rest and relaxation. But when boaters fail to follow safety rules or operate their vessels responsibly, a day on the lake can turn dangerous instantly.
At Ashby Thelen Lowry, our Atlanta personal injury attorneys represent individuals and families who have suffered serious harm due to the reckless or negligent behavior of others on the water. The consequences can be life-altering when two boats collide—or when a vessel strikes a swimmer, jet ski, or dock. Understanding who may be liable in a Georgia boat collision is the first step toward recovery and accountability.
Common Causes of Boat Collisions on Georgia Waters
Most boating collisions are preventable. Like vehicles on the road, boats must be operated with attention, skill, and awareness of others nearby. Unfortunately, not all boaters take this responsibility seriously.
Collisions may result from:
- Operator inattention or distraction: Looking at phones, navigating without awareness, or ignoring surroundings can lead to devastating outcomes.
- Operating under the influence of alcohol or drugs: Boating under the influence (BUI) is illegal in Georgia and significantly impairs reaction time and judgment.
- Excessive speed or reckless maneuvers: Speeding, sharp turns, and failure to yield are common causes of collisions, especially in crowded or narrow waterways.
- Inexperience or lack of boating knowledge: Georgia requires some boaters to complete a safety course, but many still operate vessels without proper training or regard for others.
- Failure to follow navigation rules: Ignoring channel markers, right-of-way rules, or no-wake zones can create hazardous conditions for others on the water.
Determining Liability for a Boat Collision in Georgia
Like a motor vehicle claim, a boat collision case relies on proving negligence. That means showing that the other party failed to act as a reasonably careful person would under similar circumstances and that their actions directly caused injury or harm.
Potentially liable parties may include:
- The operator of the other vessel: If their negligence caused the collision, they may be held financially responsible.
- The boat owner: If someone allowed an unqualified or reckless person to operate their boat, they may share liability.
- A rental company: If a boat is improperly maintained or rented out to someone unfit to operate it, the company may be held accountable.
- A manufacturer: A product liability claim may be appropriate if a defect in the boat’s design or equipment contributed to the collision.
Our attorneys investigate these crashes thoroughly—gathering witness statements, marine patrol reports, photos, and expert analysis to build a strong case.
Let Ashby Thelen Lowry Help After a Georgia Boat Collision
Boat collisions can result in brain injuries, spinal trauma, broken bones, and even drowning. These are not minor events, and the physical and emotional toll can be overwhelming. If you or a loved one has been seriously harmed on Lake Lanier or any Georgia waterway, we’re here to help.
Contact Ashby Thelen Lowry today for a free consultation. We may be able to take your case and fight for the justice and compensation you and your family deserve.