A boating accident can be just as scary as a car crash. In the aftermath of a mishap on choppy waters, it's important you protect yourself from both legal and practical standpoints. Below, the personal injury attorneys at Egan & Richgels, S.C., in La Crosse, WI, share what to do if you get into a boating accident.

3 Things to Do After a Boating Accident

1. Get Yourself & Others to Safety

First, check yourself and others for injuries. If your boat is still afloat, maneuver to a safe area out of the way of other traffic. If your boat is sinking, look for something floatable to hold onto until help arrives. In situations where another boat is involved, do not admit fault (even if the accident is your fault), and do not escalate any tensions that are present. Take a deep breath, and make sure everyone is safe.

2. Exchange Information With Other Boaters

Just as you would after a car accident, swap contact and insurance information with the other person involved. Also, get contact information for any witnesses who saw what occurred. Both attorneys and insurers will often request the registration or identification numbers of all boats involved in the incident, so double-check that you have this information before you leave the scene.

3. Talk to an Attorney

Whether or not the accident was your fault, you should understand your rights and responsibilities under the law. An attorney will help you do this. Your lawyer can assist you in a number of different areas relating to the crash, such as pursuing compensation from the other party's insurer, negotiating settlements, and making certain your interests are safeguarded at every step.

If you've been in an accident with a watercraft, trust the boating and auto accident attorneys at Egan & Richgels, S.C. For nearly 40 years, they have been representing clients throughout La Crosse, western Wisconsin, and southeastern Minnesota. Call (608) 784-0087 to schedule a consultation, and visit them online to learn more about their experience with boating incidents.