It’s a perfect weekend in Charleston—clear skies, calm seas, and you're out boating with family or friends. Then, in an instant, it all changes. Another boat comes too fast around a bend. Bang. You’re in the water. Your head hurts. You see your boat and your family drifting down the current in the channel. What happened, and what happens next?

Boating accidents in Charleston aren’t just rare mishaps—they can cause serious injuries, costly damage, and long-term complications. If you or someone you love is injured in a boating incident, knowing when to contact a Charleston boat accident lawyer can make a critical difference in how your case is handled and how your recovery unfolds.

At Lesemann & Associates, we help injured boaters, passengers, and families understand their legal rights and pursue the compensation they deserve.

Understanding Boating Accident Laws in Charleston, SC

Charleston’s waterways—from Shem Creek to the Ashley River to the open waters of Charleston Harbor—are enjoyed by thousands every year. But they’re also governed by a mix of state, federal, and maritime laws that most people aren’t familiar with.

Boating accidents may involve:

  • Personal watercraft (like Jet Skis)
  • Recreational boats
  • Commercial fishing vessels
  • Ferries or charter boats

When an accident occurs, multiple legal questions arise: Was the operator negligent? Was the boat properly maintained? Were maritime regulations followed? And who is liable for your medical bills, lost wages, and other damages?

South Carolina law requires boat operators to act responsibly and avoid reckless behavior, including excessive speeding, boating under the influence, or ignoring navigational rules. A Charleston boat accident lawyer can investigate what went wrong and help determine whether someone else’s negligence led to your injuries.

When Should You Talk to a SC Boat Accident Lawyer?

It’s important to seek legal help as soon as possible after a boating accident—especially if:

  • You or a passenger was seriously injured
  • The accident involved a collision with another boat or fixed object
  • There was property damage
  • The responsible party was uninsured or fled the scene
  • You’re being blamed for something you didn’t do

A skilled Charleston boat accident attorney can help protect your rights from the start. At Lesemann & Associates, we gather witness statements, review accident reports, coordinate with investigators, and work with experts if needed to build a strong case on your behalf.

We also handle negotiations with insurance companies. Too often, insurers try to settle quickly and for far less than what your claim is worth. We don’t let that happen. Our goal is to help you recover full compensation for:

  • Medical expenses
  • Lost income and future earning potential
  • Pain and suffering
  • Property damage
  • Long-term care or rehabilitation

What are Common Causes of Boat Accidents in Charleston, SC?

Many boat accidents are caused by preventable mistakes. We regularly see cases involving:

  • Operator inattention or inexperience
  • Speeding or reckless navigation
  • Alcohol or drug use while boating
  • Mechanical failures or poor maintenance
  • Lack of safety equipment (e.g., life jackets)

Whether the accident happened near Folly Beach, Isle of Palms, or along the Intracoastal Waterway, we can help you hold the right party accountable.

Get Legal Help You Can Count On

Boating accidents are different from car accidents. They require a unique understanding of maritime law, local boating regulations, and injury claims. Lesemann & Associates is based right here in Charleston, and we know how to navigate these waters—literally and legally.

Call Lesemann & Associates Today

If you’ve been injured in a boat accident, don’t wait. Evidence can disappear quickly, and the sooner you speak with an attorney, the better we can protect your rights.

Call us today to schedule a consultation with a Charleston boat accident lawyer. Let us help you seek justice and move forward with confidence.