High-Speed Collisions:
Impaired judgment often leads to excessive speeds, resulting in violent impacts between vessels or with fixed objects like docks and buoys.
South Carolina’s lakes and coastal waterways are meant for recreation and relaxation, but a single reckless decision can turn a peaceful day into a life-altering tragedy.
At The Law Offices of David L. Hood, we represent victims of serious maritime and boating accidents across the state. Whether you were injured on Lake Murray, the Intracoastal Waterway, or off the coast of Hilton Head, our legal team has the experience to navigate the complexities of South Carolina boating laws and federal maritime regulations. With over 30 years of experience, attorney David L. Hood provides the aggressive advocacy necessary to hold negligent operators accountable and secure the compensation you need for your recovery.
Alcohol is a leading factor in fatal boating accidents. In South Carolina, operating a vessel with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher is illegal and carries severe penalties. However, even smaller amounts of alcohol can impair a boater’s judgment and reaction time. We focus on holding intoxicated operators responsible for the devastation they cause, including:
Boating accidents often involve injuries that are significantly different from those found in car wrecks. Because boats lack seatbelts and airbags, victims are often thrown against hard surfaces or into the water. We assist clients struggling with:
Identifying the responsible party is critical to your claim. Liability may extend beyond the person behind the wheel. Depending on the circumstances, we may pursue claims against:
The window to act is limited. In South Carolina, you generally have three years to file a personal injury claim, but evidence on the water disappears quickly. Current flows, weather changes, and vessel repairs can destroy vital proof of negligence. Our team moves fast to interview witnesses, secure GPS data, and work with maritime experts to reconstruct the scene.
If you or a loved one has been harmed by a drunk or reckless boater, you shouldn’t have to carry the financial burden alone. From our main office in Murrells Inlet to our 17 other locations statewide, we are ready to help you navigate the legal waters.
Contact The Law Offices of David L. Hood today or message us online for a free, no-risk consultation. We work on a contingency fee basis—you pay nothing unless we win your case.
