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Shreveport Boat Accident Lawyers

When a peaceful day on Louisiana's waterways turns tragic, the aftermath can leave families devastated. Whether you're injured on Cross Lake, Cypress Black Bayou, or any local waterway, boat accidents can result in catastrophic injuries and overwhelming medical bills.

At Rice & Kendig, LLC, we understand the unique challenges of boat accident cases. Our experienced Shreveport boat accident attorneys combine deep knowledge of maritime law with decades of personal injury experience to fight for the compensation you deserve.

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Cases

We Turn Boat Accidents into Victory Stories

See How We’ve Won for Others
$1,000,000

Premises Liability

The client was a passenger in a vehicle when the roadway suddenly collapsed, causing vertebral compression fractures and significant PTSD.

$2,150,000

Wrongful Death

The client suffered fatal injuries when the defendant ran a stop sign, causing a collision that resulted in multiple broken bones and severe head trauma.

$1,600,000

Truck Accidents

Former sheriff's deputy, age 72, was rear-ended by a heavy-duty work truck, aggravating a degenerative neck problem.

$1,275,000

Car Accidents

The client was a passenger when another driver ran a stop sign, causing a t-bone collision resulting in a broken femur requiring surgery.

$750,000

Truck Accidents

An 18-wheeler lost power and rolled back into the client's vehicle, aggravating a pre-existing lower back injury.

$4,000,000

Car Accidents

The client's pre-existing Chiari malformation was aggravated in a rear-end collision, requiring a posterior craniotomy.

$750,000

Civil Rights Violation

A 68-year-old client's 4th amendment rights were violated when police illegally entered his home and wrongfully arrested him.

$650,000

Car Accidents

The client was turning into a gas station when struck from behind by a distracted driver, resulting in neck injuries requiring a 2-level cervical fusion.

$465,000

Truck Accidents

An inattentive 18-wheeler driver made an improper turn, causing a collision that aggravated the client's pre-existing neck injury requiring surgery.

$1,000,000

Car Accidents

An 84-year-old client suffered multiple injuries when a vehicle turned left in front of her, causing a t-bone collision.

$2,500,000

Pedestrian Accidents

The client was helping a friend load car seats when struck by a driver who fell asleep at the wheel.

$987,525

18-Wheeler Collision

Logging truck’s failure to yield caused client to suffer fractures in the arm and leg, amputation of 3 toes, and shoulder injuries.

$1,000,000

Premises Liability

Fall at a hotel convention center caused hand, neck, and low back injuries resulting in a 7-year recovery period.

$500,000

Motor Vehicle Collision

Injuries to back, chest, shoulder, leg and spine requiring surgery.

$500,000

Motor Vehicle Collision

Client was rear-ended sustaining injuries to the neck, back, and knee.

$500,000

Wrongful Death/Motor Vehicle Collision

Client was struck and killed during daylight hours while retrieving an item from the highway.

$500,000

Motor Vehicle Collision

Client was t-boned by a city vehicle sustaining neck and back injuries, TMJ, and headaches that required physical therapy and multiple injections.

$504,150

Motor Vehicle Collision

Client was rear-ended causing injuries to the neck and right side of the body. Client’s neck injury required surgery.

$545,000

Cycling/Motor Vehicle Collision

Client on a bicycle was hit by a police patrol car causing brain damage, and injuries to the head, neck, legs, and arm.

$550,000

18-Wheeler Collision

Client was rear-ended by a big rig causing low back and neck pain; physical recovery and treatment included injections, physical therapy, and counseling.

$625,000

Motor Vehicle Collision

Head-on collision led to wrist and hand injuries that required surgery, seat belt injuries, pain in the neck, sternum, pelvis, abdomen, shoulder, and back, and post-traumatic stress disorder.

$650,000

18-Wheeler Collision

18-wheeler driver was rear-ended by another 18-wheeler causing headaches and neck injury.

$663,000

Motor Vehicle Collision

Client was backed into while on the job at an oil field site. Collision resulted in numerous back and neck injuries requiring surgeries.

$665,000

Motor Vehicle Collision/Wrongful Death

Client went to the aid of a vehicle accident victim and was struck and killed by a passing vehicle.

$685,000

Premises Liability

Client sustained two broken legs from a fall over an unreasonably dangerous tripping hazard.

$800,000

Motor Vehicle Collision

Head-on collision that left client with back and neck injuries as well as seat belt injuries. Client’s recovery was lengthy and included physical therapy and injections.

$800,606

Motor Vehicle Collision

A defendant driver's unprotected left turn caused a collision, resulting in a severely broken leg requiring surgery, PTSD, loss of independence, and job loss for the client.

$950,000

18-Wheeler Collision

18-wheeler driver turned left, without the protection of a green arrow, in front of client. The collision caused injuries to the hand, neck, shoulder, low back, hip, foot, ankle, and eye.

$950,000

18-Wheeler Collision

Client was hit by a delivery truck and the vehicle rolled over. Client’s injuries included six broken ribs and a neck injury requiring extensive medical treatment.

$987,610

18-Wheeler Collision

Client was rear-ended multiple times by a big rig causing PTSD, spinal injuries requiring spinal fusion surgery, physical therapy, and counseling.

$1,000,000

Motor Vehicle Collision

Client was hit by a commercial vehicle that ran a stop sign. Injuries to the knee, neck, and back requiring interventional pain management.

$1,000,000

Insurance Bad Faith

Insurance company refused to pay for hail damage to a commercial property.

$1,000,000

18-Wheeler Collision

Client was rear-ended by a drunk driver of an 18-wheeler causing client to suffer short-term memory loss and injuries to the head, neck, shoulders, and back.

$1,151,000

Pedestrian/Motor Vehicle Collision

Client was struck by a vehicle in a gas station parking lot. Client suffered head and brain damage resulting in memory loss.

$1,250,000

Wrongful Death

Client’s husband died due to a logging truck running a red light.

$1,375,000

Pedestrian/Motor Vehicle Collision

Client sustained injuries to head, leg and wrist. Client’s broken leg required surgery. In addition, client sought treatment with a neurologist for his head injury and cognitive issues.

$5,100,000

Motor Vehicle Collision

Client’s motorcycle was hit by a car leaving him in the ICU with facial injuries, arm injuries, and amputation of one leg.

$1,996,460

Motor Vehicle Collision

Client was rear-ended while sitting at a stop sign. Neck and back injuries resulting in headaches and disability. Neck injury required surgery.

$1,855,500

Motor Vehicle Collision

Defendant driver’s failure to stop at a stop sign caused a collision injuring the client’s leg and ankle (required surgery), knee, hip, back, and chest. The airbags deployed, causing airbag injuries.

$1,500,000

Motor Vehicle Collision

Client was hit head-on by a delivery truck sustaining injuries to the knee, hand, neck, and back. Neck injury required surgery.

$1,400,000

Workplace Injury

A piece of loading equipment fell on client causing spinal injuries resulting in partial disability.

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Table of Contents

Common Types of Boat Accidents We Handle

At Rice & Kendig, our skilled Shreveport boat accident attorneys handle a wide range of watercraft accidents. With extensive experience in both maritime and personal injury law, we help victims navigate complex legal waters to secure the compensation they deserve.

  • Boat Collisions

    Whether it's a collision between two recreational boats or with a commercial vessel, these accidents often result in severe injuries. We investigate operator error, lighting conditions, and navigation rule violations to establish liability and hold responsible parties accountable.

  • Intoxicated Boat Operator Accidents

    Despite strict laws against boating while intoxicated (BWI), impaired operators continue to put lives at risk on Louisiana waterways. Our legal team pursues maximum compensation from drunk boat operators.

  • Jet Ski and Personal Watercraft Accidents

    High-speed personal watercraft accidents can cause devastating injuries. Whether caused by operator inexperience, reckless behavior, or equipment failure, we work to identify all liable parties and secure fair compensation for victims.

  • Propeller Strike Injuries

    Propeller accidents often result in catastrophic injuries or fatalities. We investigate operator negligence, proper safety equipment usage, and lookout procedures to build strong cases for victims and their families.

  • Wake Damage Accidents

    When boat operators create dangerous wakes near swimmers, docks, or smaller vessels, serious injuries can occur. We help victims prove negligence and recover damages from irresponsible operators.

  • Commercial Boating Accidents

    Accidents involving commercial fishing boats, tour boats, or cargo vessels involve complex maritime laws and multiple liable parties. Our Shreveport boating accident lawyers have the experience to navigate these challenging cases and secure proper compensation.

Common Boat Accident Injuries We Handle

Boat accidents often result in severe injuries that can have long-lasting impacts on victims' lives. Our experience includes handling cases involving:

  • Drowning and near-drowning injuries: These tragic incidents can result in death or severe brain damage from oxygen deprivation, requiring lifetime care.
  • Traumatic brain injuries: The force of collisions or falling overboard can cause devastating brain trauma, affecting cognitive function and quality of life.
  • Spinal cord injuries: Impact with water or vessels can cause paralysis or permanent mobility issues, requiring extensive rehabilitation and life adjustments.
  • Severe lacerations: Propeller strikes and collision debris often cause deep cuts that can lead to permanent scarring and disfigurement.
  • Broken bones and fractures: The impact of collisions or falls can result in multiple fractures requiring surgery and extended recovery time.
  • Hypothermia: Extended exposure to cold water can cause serious medical complications and organ damage.
  • Chemical burns: Fuel spills and battery acid exposure can cause severe burns requiring extensive treatment.
  • Post-traumatic stress disorder: The psychological trauma of a boat accident can lead to lasting anxiety and fear of water.
  • Amputations: Severe propeller accidents or crush injuries may result in the loss of limbs.
  • Internal organ damage: The force of impact or prolonged submersion can cause serious damage to vital organs.

Our boat accident attorneys in Shreveport, LA, understand how these injuries affect not just your health but your entire future.

Injured in a Boat Accident? Rice & Kendig Is Ready to Fight for You!

Don't let negligent boat operators off the hook! Our experienced Shreveport boating accident lawyers know how to navigate these complex cases and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Write to Us

or Call Us

(318) 222-2772

Important Steps to Follow After a Boat Accident

The actions you take following a boat accident can significantly impact your health and legal rights. Here's what you need to do:

Prioritize Medical Care for Everyone Involved

Never underestimate the severity of boating accident injuries. What seems like minor discomfort could signal serious internal trauma. Near-drowning incidents, hypothermia, and internal injuries often worsen without prompt medical attention. Getting immediate care not only protects your health but also creates vital medical documentation that strengthens your legal case.

File Official Reports with the Proper Authorities

Louisiana law requires reporting boating accidents to the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) and local law enforcement. An official accident report provides crucial documentation of the incident, including weather conditions, operator information, and witness statements. 

Our Shreveport lawyers can help ensure these reports accurately reflect the circumstances of your accident.

Preserve Evidence from the Scene

If you're physically able, document everything about the accident scene. Take clear photos of vessel damage, injuries, and surrounding conditions. Note any safety violations or hazards that may have contributed to the accident. Collect contact information from witnesses and keep any damaged personal items — these details often prove to be valuable when building your case.

Protect Your Rights When Dealing with Insurance Companies

Insurance adjusters may seem sympathetic, but their goal is to minimize your claim. Even casual comments about the accident could be twisted to reduce your compensation. Let our experienced Shreveport boat accident attorneys handle all insurance communication while you focus on recovery.

Boat Accident Compensation Victims May Receive

The aftermath of a boat accident often involves significant financial, physical, and emotional losses. At Rice & Kendig, we fight aggressively to help you get properly compensated for everything you've endured.

Medical Expenses

You may be entitled to compensation for emergency care, surgeries, hospital stays, and ongoing treatments. 

Common medical expenses include:

  • Emergency room care and hospital stays
  • Surgeries and specialist treatments
  • Physical therapy and rehabilitation
  • Mental health counseling
  • Medical equipment and devices
  • Future medical procedures and care

Our team ensures your claim accounts for all current and future medical needs.

Lost Wages and Earning Capacity

A serious boating accident can dramatically impact your ability to earn a living. We pursue compensation for:

  • Missed work wages and salary
  • Lost business opportunities
  • Reduced earning capacity
  • Benefits and retirement contributions
  • Professional retraining if needed
  • Lost promotional opportunities

You should not need to bear the burden of present and future lost income and opportunities if they happened due to someone else’s negligence. 

Property Damage

Beyond personal injuries, boat accidents often result in significant property damage. We work to ensure you're fully compensated for all property-related losses, including:

  • Boat repairs or total replacement
  • Damaged equipment and gear
  • Personal property losses
  • Salvage operation costs
  • Storage fees during repairs
  • Temporary transportation needs

The costs of property damage incurred during a boating accident can be immense. We’ll help you navigate the claims process and seek every dime you’re owed.

Pain and Suffering

The physical and emotional trauma of a boat accident extends far beyond medical bills. Louisiana law recognizes these non-economic damages, allowing victims to receive compensation for their personal suffering and life changes.

This includes compensation for:

  • Physical pain and discomfort
  • Emotional distress and anxiety
  • PTSD and psychological trauma
  • Loss of enjoyment of life
  • Permanent disability or disfigurement
  • Impact on personal relationships

Our compassionate legal team will work diligently with experts to accurately assign a value to your non-economic losses. You deserve to be compensated fully for your pain and suffering.

Additional Damages

Depending on your case circumstances, you may be entitled to additional forms of compensation. 

These may include:

  • Loss of consortium for affected family relationships
  • Wrongful death damages for surviving family members
  • Loss of life enjoyment
  • Scarring and disfigurement
  • Long-term care costs

Our experienced legal team evaluates every aspect of your case to identify all available damages.

Understanding Louisiana's Boating Laws

Louisiana has specific laws and regulations governing watercraft operation to ensure safety on its waterways. At Rice & Kendig, we use our deep knowledge of maritime law to hold negligent parties accountable when they violate these regulations.

Statute of Limitations for Boat Accident Claims

Time is critical when pursuing a boat accident claim in Louisiana. Recent changes to state law have modified filing deadlines. For accidents before July 1, 2024, victims have one year from the accident date to file. For accidents after July 1, 2024, the deadline extends to two years from the accident date.

Boating Safety Requirements

Louisiana law mandates specific safety equipment for all watercraft: 

  • Personal flotation devices (PFDs) for each passenger
  • Fire extinguishers appropriate to vessel size
  • Navigation lights for nighttime operation
  • Sound-producing devices for emergencies
  • Valid registration and documentation
  • Visual distress signals
  • Ventilation systems for powered vessels
  • Backfire flame arrestors on gasoline engines

Failure to comply with these requirements can result in penalties and affect liability in accidents.

Boating While Intoxicated (BWI) Laws

Louisiana enforces strict penalties for operating a vessel while impaired:

  • Legal blood alcohol limit of 0.08% BAC
  • Enhanced penalties for BAC levels over 0.15%
  • Mandatory jail time for repeat offenders
  • License suspension affecting both boating and driving privileges
  • Fines ranging from $300 to $2,000 for first offense
  • Possible vessel seizure and forfeiture
  • Mandatory substance abuse programs

If the negligent party in your accident was boating while intoxicated, they may be held liable for your losses in addition to facing criminal charges.

Operator Age Requirements

The state has specific requirements for who can legally operate a vessel:

  • Mandatory boating education for those born after January 1, 1984
  • Age restrictions based on vessel type and horsepower
  • Supervision requirements for operators under 16

Gathering information about the negligent party’s age can help your lawyer determine whether age requirements were violated.

Navigation and Operation Rules

All operators must follow established navigation rules, including:

  • Maintaining safe speeds based on conditions
  • Keeping proper lookout at all times
  • Following right-of-way protocols
  • Using appropriate signals during turns or passes
  • Complying with no-wake zones and speed restrictions
  • Maintaining a safe distance from other vessels
  • Proper anchoring and mooring procedures
  • Special rules for narrow channels and congested areas

When failing to comply with navigation and operation rules results in an accident, the responsible party can be held liable for the victim’s losses. 

Accident Reporting Requirements

Louisiana law requires reporting boating accidents when they result in:

  • Death or disappearance
  • Injury requiring medical treatment beyond first aid
  • Property damage exceeding $500
  • Complete loss of vessel

Reports must be filed within 48 hours for fatal accidents and five days for other reportable accidents.

Struggling After Your Accident? We're Here to Help.

At Rice & Kendig, our Shreveport car accident lawyers have more than 40 years of experience helping clients receive the justice and compensation they deserve. Get your free case review now!

No Fee Unless We Win For You

Free Consultation

or Call Us

(318) 222-2772
TESTIMONIALS

Life After a Boat Accident:

Stories of Triumph

  • I knew that they would take care of us, and I would definitely recommend them to anybody.

  • Rice & Kendig are very good at seeing what the weakness in our case is and what the strength is and developing both sides of the case.

  • They take great care of you. They care, and they make sure that you get what you need, they make sure that you're okay.

  • I suggest Rice & Kendig if you want someone who cares about you and your situation.

  • They did such a good job fighting for us and not dragging it on... Thanks to Rice & Kendig, the matter was over within a year.

  • He called me every day, made sure I was okay... he was just perfect. You couldn't ask for a better attorney.

  • They took care of us right away. They were loving.

BENEFITS

Why Choose Rice &

Kendig for Your Boat Accident Case?

When your life has been turned upside down by a boating accident, choosing the right legal team can make all the difference. At Rice & Kendig, we don't just handle boat accident cases — we fight relentlessly to rebuild lives and secure futures.

  • Mastering the Details of Maritime Law
    Don't let complex maritime laws sink your case. From federal regulations to local waterway rules, our boating accident attorneys navigate these legal waters with confidence, turning complex laws into powerful advantages for your case.
  • Your Local Advantage on Louisiana Waters
    Why trust your case to someone who needs GPS to find Cross Lake? Our decades of experience on local waterways gives you an unmatched advantage. We know every bend in the Red River, every hazard on Cross Lake, and every challenge unique to Shreveport's waters.
  • A Lasting Commitment to Success
    Insurance companies know our reputation. When they see Rice & Kendig on your case, they know we mean business. Our track record of record-breaking settlements and courtroom victories speaks louder than words. 
  • Breaking Down  Language Barriers
    Justice shouldn't depend on what language you speak. Our bilingual team ensures that Spanish-speaking clients receive the same powerful representation without missing a single detail. 
  • Your Success is Our Success
    Worried about legal fees while medical bills pile up? Don't be. Our no-win, no-fee guarantee means you pay nothing unless we win your case. We take on all the financial risk, fronting all costs and investing our time and resources in your success. 
  • Personal Attention to Your Unique Story
    From your first consultation to your final victory, you work directly with experienced attorneys who know your story and care about your future. We're available when you need us, ready to answer your questions and guide you through every step of your journey to justice.
Your Local Advocates:

Serving Boat Accident Victims Across Northern Louisiana

Our commitment to justice extends throughout Northern Louisiana's waterways and parishes:

Office Address

912 Kings Highway Shreveport, Louisiana 71104

Don't Let Your Boat Accident Damage Your Future

— Call Rice & Kendig Today!

When the medical bills are rising, and insurance companies try to leave you drowning in debt, you need more than just a lawyer — you need a champion who'll weather any storm to win your case. At Rice & Kendig, we've spent over 50 years being that beacon of hope for Shreveport families devastated by boat accidents.

Contact us now for your free consultation. Share your story, learn your options, and let us show you why so many Shreveport families trust Rice & Kendig to fight for them.

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FAQ

Your Questions Answered:

Boat Accident FAQ

  • First, ensure everyone's safety and seek medical attention — even if injuries seem minor. Report the accident to the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries and local law enforcement. Document everything you can and avoid discussing fault. Contact Rice & Kendig at (318)222-2772 before speaking with insurance companies.

  • Yes. While not wearing a life jacket may affect your claim under Louisiana's comparative fault rules, it doesn't prevent you from seeking compensation. We'll focus on proving the other party's negligence and fighting for your right to recovery.

  • Don't lose hope. We'll explore all potential sources of compensation, including your own insurance policies, claims against the boat owner, or other liable parties like rental companies or manufacturers. Our team knows how to identify all possible avenues for recovery.

  • Tour operators and rental companies have specific legal obligations to ensure customer safety. We can pursue claims against these companies for negligent operation, poor maintenance, or failure to properly train staff. Our team will investigate all aspects of the incident to hold responsible parties accountable.