Experienced Advocates For Maryland Boat Accident Victims
Last updated on August 13, 2026
With our close proximity to the Chesapeake Bay and Potomac River, we are in an ideal location for boating. Unfortunately, many Maryland, DC and Virginia residents end up severely injured each year due to negligent boaters.
At Wampler & Souder, LLC, our personal injury attorneys have decades of experience advocating for people injured in boat and other watercraft accidents. We put our clients first and will help you fight for maximum compensation.
Boating Comes With Serious Risks
While a great summer pastime, boating is also accompanied by the risk of serious injury and even death. Many boat operators fail to devote the attention and caution that they need while on the water. Below are some of the main causes of boat accidents in the mid-Atlantic region:
- Operator intoxication
- Operator distraction
- Operator inexperience
- Excessive speeding
- Hazardous conditions
- Violating navigational rules
The Dangers Of Intoxicated Boat Operators
While many people know not to operate a car under the influence of alcohol, that same logic is not always applied to boating. Many view summer afternoons on the boat as a social outing, often accompanied by alcohol.
Operating a boat under the influence of alcohol or drugs is just as dangerous as drunk driving. Each year, drunk boating results in the highest number of deadly boat accidents.
Determining Liability After A Boat Accident
Like car accidents, our personal injury lawyers will look to establish fault after a boat crash. We can investigate what factors played a role in the collision and help prove liability.
We work hard to find evidence that can prove your case and maximize your compensation. This can help you cover medical costs, rehabilitation costs, lost wages from missed work and more.
Frequently Asked Questions For Your Boat Accident Claim
If you were hurt in a boat crash, the following answers explain rules that may affect your case:
How does Maryland handle negligence in boat crash incidents?
Maryland uses a contributory negligence rule. It can bar recovery if your own negligence helped cause your injury, even when another party was also at fault. In a boat crash, a dispute may focus on where you sat, whether you wore a life jacket or what you knew about the boat operator. None of those facts proves fault by itself, so the full setting still matters.
Federal maritime law may use comparative fault. Your share of fault may reduce your damages instead of blocking recovery.
Are there reporting requirements following a Maryland boat collision?
Yes. Maryland law requires a report after some crashes, and the operator must file it with the Department of Natural Resources. If the operator cannot file, the vessel owner must do so.
The report is due within 48 hours after a death, a disappearance or medical care beyond first aid. Other reportable accidents must generally be reported within 10 days. The law covers personal injury, property damage of at least $2,000 and complete loss of a vessel.
The operator must also stop, share required details and give practical aid when safe.
How does federal jurisdiction differ from Maryland state court jurisdiction for boat accidents?
Federal admiralty law may apply to boat crashes on navigable waters when the event also has the required link to maritime activity. That does not mean every maritime case belongs only in federal court.
Federal law preserves some remedies in state court through the “saving to suitors” rule. A state court may hear a maritime claim while federal maritime law still controls key issues.
Maritime law generally uses comparative fault, while Maryland negligence law uses contributory negligence. Both systems may also involve a three-year filing period.
Federal law sets three years for many personal injury or death claims from a maritime tort. Maryland’s general civil rule also uses three years, but other rules may change when that period starts.
Contact Wampler & Souder, LLC, To Discuss Your Case
If you were injured by a negligent boat operator, the accomplished attorneys at Wampler & Souder are prepared to help. We have offices located in Silver Spring, Frederick and Upper Marlboro, Maryland. We invite you to schedule a consultation at the office location most convenient for you. Call us at 301-668-5111 or contact us online today.
You do not pay any attorney fees unless we recover compensation on your behalf.