Marble Falls Boat Accident Lawyer
Boat Accidents in Marble Falls, TX
A weekend on the lake with friends is supposed to be fun, but when a boater acts recklessly, the fun can become frightening. Much like accidents in motor vehicles, a boat operator can cause injuries to their passengers when they drive intoxicated or act negligently. Since boats are surrounded by water, even a minor accident can lead to catastrophic injuries. Thankfully, like car accident injuries, those injured in boating accidents can pursue legal action against the responsible party to recover compensation, and a Marble Falls boat accident lawyer at Janicek Law can help.
If you or a loved one were injured in a boating accident in Marble Falls, the San Antonio personal injury attorneys from Janicek Law are here to help. Our compassionate attorneys have helped countless clients throughout Texas recover compensation for damages following their boating accidents. To learn more about your boat accident case, contact Janicek Law at 210-366-4949 to schedule a free consultation with a Marble Falls boating accident attorney.
Boat Accident Statistics
According to the U.S. Coast Guard, over 4,430 boating accidents occurred in 2021. Those accidents resulted in 2,641 injuries, 658 fatalities, and $67.5 million in property damages.
That year, the leading cause of death in boat accidents was drowning, which led to 81% of boating fatalities. Of those killed due to drownings, 83% were not wearing life vests when the accident occurred.
The same data reported by the U.S. Coast Guard found that boater operator inexperience was the leading cause of boating accidents in 2021. That inexperience led to 75% of deaths because the operator lacked knowledge of proper procedures and/or safety equipment use.
Common Causes of Boat Accidents in Marble Falls, TX
Boating collisions can involve personal and recreational watercraft types, like jet skis, motor boats, speedboats, canoes, and kayaks.
The U.S. Coast Guard reported that most boating accidents are caused by excessive speed, operator negligence, defective equipment, and improper lookout. Other causes of boating accidents are:
- Inexperienced drivers
- Operating the watercraft while intoxicated
- Crowded waterways
- Recklessness or driving distracted
- Failing to anchor the boat correctly
- Overloading the boat with people or equipment
- Bad weather conditions
- Fires caused by vapor igniting or spilled fuel
- Ignoring the waterway right-of-way rules
Is It Illegal to Operate a Boat While Intoxicated in Texas?
It is illegal to boat while intoxicated, according to Texas Penal Code Section 49.06. Similar to driving a motor vehicle while drunk, a boat operator is considered intoxicated if their blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.08% or greater.
BUI Penalties
Boat operators in Texas can face harsh penalties if convicted of boating while intoxicated. If the drugs or alcohol led to a boating collision, the punishments can be worse depending on the accident’s severity and injuries. Boat operators involved in prior watercraft accidents can also face more serious penalties.
First Offense
A boat operator’s first BWI offense is a class B misdemeanor unless the accident caused injuries or death. This penalty can result in 72 hours to 180 days in jail and a maximum fine of $2,000.
If the BWI accident caused serious injuries or intoxication assault, it is increased to a third-degree felony. This felony is punishable by a 2 to 10-year jail sentence and a maximum of $10,000 in fines.
When a boating while intoxicated accident leads to another’s death, also referred to as intoxication manslaughter, it’s upgraded to a second-degree felony. This felony can result in 2 to 10 years in jail and a maximum of $10,000 in fines.
Second Offense
A boating operator’s second BWI offense is considered a class A misdemeanor, resulting in 30 days to one year in jail and a maximum fine of $4,000.
Third Offense
A third or subsequent BWI offense is a third-degree felony. This offense is punishable by 2 to 10 years in jail and fines up to $10,000.
Common Boat Accident Injuries
The most common boating accident injuries are listed below.
- Spinal cord injuries
- Partial or complete paralysis
- Nerve damage
- Traumatic brain injuries (caused by hitting one’s head or drowning)
- Internal injuries
- Skull or facial fractures
- Broken bones
- Finger, toe, or limb amputations
- Eye damage or vision loss
- Major scarring, burns, bruising, and/or lacerations
If you have suffered any of these types of injuries in a Marble Falls boating accident, be sure to contact a San Antonio traumatic brain injury attorney, a San Antonio spinal cord injury attorney, a San Antonio paralysis attorney, a San Antonio amputation attorney, or a San Antonio burn injury attorney today.
When Should You Report a Boating Accident in Texas?
In Texas, the Parks and Wildlife Code Section 31.105 outlines when a boating accident should be reported to authorities. If the boating accident resulted in the following, it must be reported.
- Major injury requiring emergency medical treatment
- Death or a missing person
- Over $2,000 in property damage
The boating laws in Texas state that the boating accident must be reported to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department within 30 days following the accident. If the accident resulted in a fatality or missing person, it must be reported within 48 hours.
How To Report a Boating Accident in Texas
You must contact local law enforcement or the game warden to report a boating accident in Texas. The accident can also be reported to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department by calling 800-792-1112 or 512-389-4848.
You will most likely be required to complete an accident report when you report the accident. If you’re involved in a boat accident, it’s recommended that you collect the following information:
- Date, location, and time of the accident
- If the boat operator is someone else, collect their name and contact information
- Your name and contact information
- Names and contact information of the passengers on any other boat involved
- Names and contact information of any injured individuals
- Names and contact information of anyone deceased or missing
- The identification number of the boat and other watercraft involved
After completing the boat accident report, contact the Marble Falls boat accident attorneys at Janicek Law. We will evaluate your claim and determine whether you have a personal injury case against the negligent party.
Can You Sue for a Boat Accident in Marble Falls, TX?
If the boating accident was caused by negligence, you can file a lawsuit against the responsible party.
To file a successful boating accident lawsuit, the attorneys at Janicek Law will work to prove negligence occurred. To do this, they will work with you to show that the 4 Ds of negligence were present. Those elements are as follows:
- Duty of Care: Boat operators owe a duty of care to one another to keep everyone safe on waterways. This includes not drinking, driving carefully, assigning a lookout, and driving the speed limit.
- Breached Duty of Care: When the boat operator acts negligently, they’ve violated this duty of care.
- Causation: The boat operator’s negligence led to injury or wrongful death.
- Damages: The victim(s) suffered damages during the accident and should be compensated.
Immediately following a boat accident, collecting as much evidence as possible to support your claim is important. This can include taking pictures of the accident, damages to the vessel, and injuries to those involved. Other evidence to help your Marble Falls boat accident lawyer are witness statements, medical records, documentation of lost wages, and BAC records.
Boating Accident Damages
The Marble Falls boat accident attorneys from Janicek Law will work toward recovering compensation for the following damages:
- Lost wages.
- Medical expenses, past and future.
- Physical therapy.
- Medical equipment costs, like wheelchairs and other mobility devices.
- Loss of earning capacity.
- Counseling costs.
- Physical pain and suffering.
- Emotional distress.
- Permanent scarring, disfigurement, or disability.
- Loss of enjoyment of life.
- Loss of consortium.
- Expenses related to the funeral and burial of a loved one if the accident resulted in wrongful death. Contact a San Antonio wrongful death attorney to seek justice for your deceased loved one.
- Punitive damages.
Boat Accident Statute of Limitations in Texas for Serious Injury Claims
The statute of limitations for boating accidents in Texas is two years after the accident. It’s important to contact an experienced boat accident attorney as soon as possible because you cannot recover compensation for damages if the two-year limit passes.
Call a Marble Falls Boat Accident Lawyer at Janicek Law Today
If you or a loved one were injured in a boat accident caused by the negligence of another, you deserve to be compensated for your injuries. No matter what type of watercraft was involved in the accident, the Marble Falls personal injury attorneys at Janicek Law can handle it.
We also provide legal services for residents in Houston, Austin, Horseshoe Bay, and the surrounding areas. To schedule a free consultation with a San Antonio boat accident attorney or a Horseshoe Bay boat accident attorney, contact Janicek Law by calling 210-366-4949 today.
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Natasha Garza31 August 2026Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
We had an amazing experience with Janicek Law from beginning to end. Karen Rangel recommended us to Cassidy Muniz, and we are so thankful she did. Cassidy assisted myself, my husband, and our two daughters, and all four of us are extremely happy with the experience and outcome. Cassidy truly went above and beyond for our entire family. She was always responsive, patient, professional, and helpful, and she kept us informed throughout the entire process. Everything went smoothly, we had no issues, and she made what could have been a stressful situation so much easier for us. The entire team at Janicek Law is amazing, and we felt like we were in great hands from start to finish. We are incredibly grateful to Karen for recommending Cassidy and especially grateful to Cassidy for everything she did for our family. We would 100% recommend Cassidy and Janicek Law to anyone looking for a team that truly cares about their clients. Thank you all so much for everything! ❤️![]()
Alex McWhirter18 August 2026Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
We were referred to Janicek Law firm from a lawyer in Brownsville, who pointed out that they are experts in the field of medical malpractice and I am so grateful. We worked with Andrew and Gaby and they were dedicated and worked hard to get us the best possible outcome. They kept us informed and updated through every step of the process, always with a friendly and very professional disposition. Despite language and distance challenges, they accommodated all of our needs, and I would highly recommend Janicek Law Firm. They made a bad situation better by listening to our concerns, helping us through a sorrowful time for my family, and advising on how to defeat our opponent. For any families that have a beloved and elderly relative who suffered in the hands of callous and neglectful medical institutions, Janicek Law Firm were amazing in advocating for our relative and making these corporate entities accountable. Thank you, Andrew and Gaby, we really appreciated your help!![]()
Heidi Soto8 August 2026Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Mr Bernal and Karen were great. They always kept me up to date on all that was going on at all times. When it came down to mediation Mr Bernal knew exactly what to do and say to make things clear with the insurance company who wanted to take advantage of me. I highly recommend Mr Bernal if you ever are in an accident. He will definitely take care of you.![]()
Lucy30 July 2026Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
I am beyond thankful for everyone at Janicek law for the professionalism, dedication, and support you all have showed throughout my lawsuit. From the very beginning, you all made a difficult and stressful situation much easier to navigate! Thank you for taking the time to answer my questions, keeping me informed every step of the way and making this process as stress free as possible! I can without a doubt definitely recommend this law firm!![]()
Iris Contreras16 July 2026Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
I have started this review so many times, but every time I do, I realize there simply aren't enough words to thank the people at Janicek Law. Almost 3 years ago, my world ended. I lost my son, Zayden—the greatest love of my life. My other son, Zy, witnessed the unimaginable that day. He carries those memories with him every single day, and we are forever grateful that he is still here because we very easily could have lost him too. Our family didn't just experience a tragedy—we experienced trauma that changed us forever. When I first met the team at Janicek Law, I wasn't just grieving. I was broken. I was a mother trying to survive the unthinkable while helping my surviving son heal from something no child should ever witness. I didn't know if I had the strength to keep fighting. There were so many moments when I wanted to give up. Every deposition, every conversation, every piece of evidence forced me to relive the worst day of my life. I told them I couldn't do it anymore. But they never let me forget why we were fighting. They reminded me that Zayden deserved justice. They reminded me that Zy deserved justice. They believed in my family even when I couldn't believe in myself. What makes Janicek Law different is that this was never just a job to them. They never made me feel like another client or another case number. They knew my children by name. They celebrated Zayden's life. They cried with us, prayed with us, hugged us, encouraged us, and walked beside us through every heartbreaking step. They carried a piece of this burden with us, and I will never forget that. Even after the case was over, they didn't disappear. They still answer my calls. They still help me with paperwork. They still check on me. They still make me feel like my family matters. That's something you cannot fake. That's love. Somewhere along the way, I stopped seeing them as "my attorneys" and started seeing them as family. And I truly believe I have a family for life. No amount of money will ever bring my little boy back. I would trade every penny to hear his laugh one more time. But because of Janicek Law, I have peace knowing that his life mattered, his story was heard, and that they fought for my boys with everything they had. From the deepest part of a mother's heart... thank you. Thank you for loving my children. Thank you for never giving up on us when I wanted to give up myself. Thank you for standing beside us through the darkest chapter of our lives. You gave my family more than legal representation—you gave us hope, dignity, and people we will love for the rest of our lives. You helped a grieving mother find the strength to be the voice her son no longer had. In a world that can feel so unfair, you reminded me that there are still genuinely good people. We love each and every one of you, and we will never forget what you did for Zayden, for Zy, and for us.❤️![]()
Destiny Sanchez14 July 2026Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
My friend Karen referred us to Janicek law firm and I am so grateful. We worked with cassidy moving forward and she went above and beyond while helping me with my accident case. From the very beginning, she was professional, knowledgeable, and always available to answer my questions. She kept me informed throughout the entire process and made a stressful situation much easier to handle. Her dedication, hard work, and attention to detail truly made a difference in my case. I am incredibly grateful for everything she did for me and my family. I would highly recommend Cassidy and Janicek Law Firm, who genuinely cares about clients and fights for the best possible outcome. Thank you cassidy for everything!![]()
Virginia-Ann Bernal8 July 2026Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
After my accident, I felt overwhelmed and had no idea what to do next. Choosing Janicek Law Firm was one of the best decisions I could have made. From the very beginning, Philip Bernal, Cassidy Muniz, and Karen Rangel took the time to explain the process, answer my questions, and make sure I always knew what to expect. Cassidy and Karen were absolutely incredible throughout my entire case. They coordinated my medical care, helped with scheduling appointments, communicated with my insurance, and was always available whenever I needed guidance or reassurance. Their compassion and dedication truly made a difficult time so much easier. The entire team worked hard to build my case, keeping me informed every step of the way, and ultimately secured a settlement I was very happy with. More importantly, they gave me the peace of mind to focus on healing instead of worrying about the legal process. I can’t thank Philip, Cassidy, Karen and everyone at Janicek Law Firm enough for their professionalism, kindness, and commitment. If you’re looking for a law firm that genuinely cares about its clients, I highly recommend them. THANK YOU SOO MUCH!!![]()
Corey Sil29 June 2026Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Mr. Skemp and Gaby took care of everything and made my suit for Wrongful Death as easy as possible. I couldn’t have done any of this with out them! They honored and represented my Mother to the fullest and for that I am greatful! G. Silvas![]()
Jasub Baez22 June 2026Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Good lawyers .![]()
Aldo Salinas10 June 2026Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
I highly recommend the team at Janicek Law. From the very beginning, they provided outstanding legal service that was both professional and deeply compassionate. The entire staff is incredibly knowledgeable, and they made a complex process feel manageable and stress-free. It’s rare to find a firm that combines such high-level legal expertise with a genuinely friendly, client-focused approach. I am very grateful for their support and would choose them again without hesitation.