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by The Stoddard Firm - June 21st, 2021
During a Mother’s Day trip to Lake Lanier, the Coleman family’s boat exploded and went up in flames. Their dog was killed, and teenage brother and sister Gunner and Taylor had to be airlifted to Grady Memorial Hospital, along with one adult bystander. Parents Steve and Annie and youngest brother Ryder were also on the boat and injured in the blast, Annie severely enough to require hospital care as well.
The Georgia Department of Natural Resources says that the explosion occurred at the gas docks at the Port of Indecision, but notes nothing unusual about the refueling stop or the conditions at the docks.
According to Gunner Coleman, the explosion is being investigated by both the insurance company and Lake Lanier officials, but neither have been able to determine the cause of the explosion, only that the boat’s gas tank ruptured. He also says that the boat passed a safety inspection before use.
As strange and sudden as this accident seems, it might actually be part of a larger problem with safety standards for recreational boats. In 2019, the most recent year of data published by the Coast Guard, there were 139 fuel-related recreational boat explosions in the U.S.
One of the most common reasons for gas explosions on boats is a buildup of gas fumes in the bilge. This can happen because of leaky ventilation hoses or problems with vent placement, or because users have not been informed of how to safely prepare the boat for fueling.
There are many possible explanations for a boat explosion like this one, but the bottom line is that well-designed boats don’t explode under normal usage for no reason. If the boat was poorly designed, the manufacturer may be liable for the family’s injuries. If it was well designed but built from faulty parts, the manufacturer of those individual parts may be liable instead, or as well. The inspector who declared the boat safe may also share liability.
Documentation should always be one of the first steps after any serious accident, second only to protecting and caring for the people on the scene. This process starts with simple things like photographing the damage and gathering contact information from witnesses. However, as the investigation continues, it’s important for survivors to have an expert involved who’s on their side, and who will ensure that any evidence relevant to them will be found and preserved correctly.
In order to protect their financial and medical future, it’s in any accident survivor’s best interest to obtain qualified burn injury or accident lawyer as soon as possible.
Currently, the Coleman family is receiving assistance via a Go Fund Me campaign. While it’s absolutely understandable for loved ones to want to help out with immediate needs in times of tragedy, survivors of negligence shouldn’t have to rely exclusively on donations to get back on their feet. For one thing, the caring individuals who make these donations can rarely afford to completely cover extensive medical care, such as the multiple surgeries and physical therapy the Coleman teens will require, let alone make up for the pain of the injuries, or the time lost to recovery.
Arguably even more importantly, however, placing the entire financial burden of a tragedy on the victims, their friends and family, and generous strangers lets negligent companies off the hook for the harm they cause. It removes the financial incentive to build safer boats and other products, leaving other families at risk in the future.
If you are a member of the Coleman family injured in the Mother’s Day explosion, or if you have also been injured on Lake Lanier or by a malfunctioning boat in Georgia, reach out to The Stoddard Firm to learn about your options for pursuing fair and complete compensation.
A dedicated, ethical advocate who takes on major corporations and global insurers with virtually unlimited resources. Known for high-profile cases featured on Courtroom Viewing Network, this attorney is also a sought-after legal educator, teaching at seminars for top bar associations. Trusted by clients and media alike, they work tirelessly to secure justice and deliver results.
Member of the Atlanta Bar Association, the Georgia Bar Association, and the Georgia Trial Lawyers Association
Licensed in Georgia since: 2008
Education: University of Georgia School of Law
Personal injury compensation enables an injured individual to regain the same quality of life they had before the incident. This may entail funds for modifying a home for wheelchair accessibility or offering vocational training for those unable to return to their previous job. It is crucial for compensation to cover lost earnings and cover both past and anticipated medical costs.
We conduct interviews with colleagues, consult with attending healthcare professionals, and engage specialists to ensure we secure comprehensive compensation that aids our clients in re-establishing their life trajectories.
When deciding to hire an Atlanta personal injury lawyer, you need to consider:
1. Who’s at Fault
If you’re in an accident and it’s unclear who’s responsible, seeking advice from an attorney is wise. Insurance companies may attempt to attribute damages to you in such scenarios. An attorney can shield you from counterclaims and cross-claims, safeguarding your rights.
2. The Severity of Injuries Sustained
When facing a lifetime of pain, suffering, and mounting bills, taking chances is not an option. A personal injury attorney is entrusted with averting lifelong financial strain.
3. If You’re Facing Insurance Company Denial or Delay
The intricate laws and procedures surrounding personal injury claims are areas where insurance companies capitalize on individuals’ lack of expertise. A lawyer can provide invaluable assistance in this regard.
It’s possible but not necessarily probable and will likely depend on whether you want your case to go to trial. The majority of cases end in a settlement. Going to trial typically occurs when there are intricate, contentious matters regarding the accident’s cause or the severity of your injuries. Occasionally, defendants may simply be unyielding and unwilling to settle or you may just want more than the insurer believes is reasonable.
It shouldn’t be a shock if your attorney diligently pursues a settlement while also readying your witnesses for trial. A proficient lawyer must be equipped for any scenario. Demonstrating to the opposing party that we’re gearing up for a trial indicates that we’re resolute and not inclined to back down.
Determining all potential parties who could be held liable for a personal injury involves a thorough investigation of various factors. If someone else neglected to exercise reasonable care, they can be held accountable for the resulting injuries, as outlined in Title 51 of Georgia Code of Laws or as outlined in Georgia’s common law.
The individual directly involved in the accident may not be the sole party at fault. For instance, in the case of a drunk driving accident, while the driver may bear responsibility, the person who knowingly provided additional alcohol to an obviously intoxicated individual could also be deemed liable. In other circumstances, an at fault party’s employer is responsible for its employees actions.
Following a personal injury accident, there are critical steps you should take. First and foremost, seek prompt medical attention. Visit the emergency room or call for an ambulance at the accident site. Any delay in receiving medical care could impact your health and the outcome of your personal injury case.
Refrain from discussing your case with the insurance company representing the at-fault party. They may deny your settlement or offer a significantly lower amount than you deserve.
Additionally, it’s crucial for both you and your personal injury attorney to gather as much evidence and documentation as possible. This is vital in establishing that your injuries resulted from someone else’s negligence. Make an effort to collect records and documents related to your case, including medical records, police reports, photographs, witness contact information, and similar items. Once you’ve received medical attention, contact The Stoddard Firm.
Do not say anything! If an insurance company contacts you, refrain from providing any information until you have consulted with your attorney. Insurance companies typically contact accident victims in an attempt to elicit a statement about the incident, which they may use to devalue the settlement.
While you may eventually need to converse with them, seeking guidance from a seasoned legal team is crucial. They will provide clear instructions on what you should and should not disclose to protect the value of your case.
This page has been written, edited, and reviewed by a team of legal writers following our comprehensive editorial guidelines. This page was revised and approved by Attorney Matthew B. Stoddard, who has more than 16 years of legal experience as a personal injury attorney.
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