Burnsville Boating Accident Attorney For Your Serious Injuries
Last updated on October 27, 2025
When a serious boating accident happens and causes an accident, your peace is shattered. If you or a loved one has an injury due to a boat accident, our attorney at Otten Law Offices can help you.
For over 30 years, we have stood up for the people of the South Metro who endured serious boating accidents. Since our firm’s founding in 1990, we have offered vigorous, aggressive representation. Paul Otten, our founder, offers in-depth knowledge of Minnesota’s boating laws and how they apply to your case uniquely. You always receive direct, one-on-one counsel from Paul, never an associate or a paralegal.
Common Boating Accident Locations In The South Metro Area
Every summer, our state’s lakes and rivers become busy. This high traffic increases the risk of a serious negligent accident, drunk boating accident or wrongful death accident. Whether you were on a jet ski or a fishing vessel, a pontoon or a personal watercraft, an injury on the water demands legal action.
We frequently assist clients who have suffered from a devastating sinking boat injury or other severe trauma in Burnsville or the neighboring community. We have experience handling boating accidents that result in serious physical harm. Finding the right boating accident lawyer is key to securing your financial recovery.
The following are well-known boating areas near Burnsville, Minnesota:
- Alimagnet Lake
- Crystal Lake
- Lac Lavon
- Keller Lake
- Sunset Pond
The state of Minnesota, the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and local municipalities have certain rules for smaller lakes and ponds. For example, in Burnsville, small lakes and ponds include any water body up to 65 acres in size. This excludes Alimagnet, Crystal, Keller and Lac Lavon. On these smaller bodies of water, motorized vehicles powered by internal combustion engines are not allowed. Many boaters still choose to ignore this and other regulations, with catastrophic results.
Accidents tend to happen very quickly. However, they leave behind long-lasting physical and financial burdens. If you are injured on any waterway in the area, our boating accident lawyer can work to secure justice for you.
Understanding Insurance Claims After A Boating Injury
Many injury survivors hesitate to pursue a personal injury claim. You may consider yourself a good person who avoids lawsuits. We want you to understand one thing clearly: this is not a malicious lawsuit against another person. This is an insurance claim. You are seeking money from an insurance company. By pursuing compensation for your boating injury damages, you are simply getting what you need and deserve. You are not hurting anyone.
Help Is Here For Drunk Driving Claims And Other Injuries
Paul Otten also handles serious injury claims resulting from impaired drivers on the road. This can involve cars, trucks, motorcycles, pedestrians and bike riders. Whether a drunk driver is on the highway or the water, they can cause a preventable tragedy. Fortunately, we help victims of both.
What Steps Should I Take After A Boating Accident?
Immediately stop your boat. Assist anyone who is hurt. Call 911 if there are serious injuries or substantial property damage. Document the scene by taking photos if you are able. Get medical support. Even if you do not have visible harm, many injuries, including traumatic brain injuries, do not appear for a few weeks.
When Do I Have To Report A Boating Accident To The Police?
Minnesota law requires reporting the accident if:
- A person dies or disappears.
- A person requires medical attention beyond first aid.
- The total property damage exceeds $2,000.
You do not have to report minor incidents, for example, scraping the other boat’s paint.
How Long After A Boat Accident Can You File A Claim In Minnesota?
In Minnesota, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is six years from the boating incident. Many factors can shorten this time limit, so you should consult a personal injury lawyer immediately.
What Happens If Someone Gets Hurt On Your Boat?
If the injury resulted from another party’s negligence, such as a defective part or another boater’s recklessness, you may not be liable. If the injury resulted from your own failure to maintain safety, your liability insurance should cover the claim. Regardless of fault, your first step should be to get the injured person immediate medical care.
Discuss Financial Recovery With A Minnesota Personal Injury Lawyer
At Otten Law Offices, you will find the vigorous representation you need. We seek to secure the maximum compensation for your injury. Call us today to schedule a free consultation with our respected boating accident attorney. Please call 952-303-0702 or contact us by email.