Boating and watercraft accidents can cause severe injuries and life-altering consequences. At Murphy & Sumy, our experienced personal injury attorneys are dedicated to helping victims of these accidents obtain the compensation they deserve. If you or a loved one have been injured in a boating accident in St. Joseph, Kansas City, MO, or the surrounding areas, we are here to provide trusted legal guidance and aggressive representation.


Common Types of Boating & Watercraft Accidents We Handle
Boating accidents come in various forms, and each incident requires a thorough investigation to determine liability. Some of the most common types of boating and watercraft accidents we handle include:
Collisions Between Boats or Watercraft: This includes accidents where one vessel strikes another due to operator error, negligence, or failure to follow navigation rules.
Capsizing & Overturning: When a boat or personal watercraft flips over, passengers can suffer serious injuries or drowning.
Falls Overboard: Slipping and falling or being thrown overboard often result in injuries or fatality.
Operator Intoxication: Boating under the influence (BUI) is a major cause of accidents and significantly impacts liability.
Equipment Failure or Defective Products: Malfunctioning motors, steering issues, or defective safety equipment can lead to accidents.
Lack of Proper Safety Measures: Failure to provide or use personal flotation devices (life jackets) and inadequate safety briefings can worsen injury outcomes.
Understanding the specific cause of an accident helps us build a strong case on your behalf.
How Our Legal Process Works for Boating Accident Cases
At Murphy & Sumy, we guide you step-by-step through the legal process, making it as straightforward and stress-free as possible:
Free Initial Consultation: We start with a no-obligation meeting to discuss the details of your accident, answer your questions, and explain your rights.
Case Evaluation & Investigation: Our team thoroughly investigates the accident scene, gathers evidence, reviews police reports, obtains witness statements, and consults with boating and accident reconstruction experts if necessary.
Filing a Claim: Once we have a clear understanding of your case, we file a personal injury claim against the responsible parties, which may include negligent boat operators, manufacturers, or rental companies.
Negotiation & Settlement: We aggressively negotiate with insurance companies to pursue maximum compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
Litigation When Necessary: If negotiations fail, we are prepared to take your case to court to ensure your rights are fully protected.
Ongoing Communication: Throughout the entire process, we keep you informed, promptly returning your calls and answering your questions.

Why Choose Murphy & Sumy for Your Boating Accident Case?
Boating accidents present unique challenges that require specialized knowledge and experience. At Murphy & Sumy, we combine our deep understanding of personal injury law with a focus on boating and watercraft incidents to deliver results. Our commitment to personalized attention means you won’t be just another case number—we fight tirelessly to hold negligent parties accountable.
With offices serving Kansas City, MO, and the surrounding areas, we know local waterways and regulations, giving us an edge in handling your case effectively. We are passionate advocates for injured victims, dedicated to securing justice and helping you rebuild your life.
If you or a loved one has been harmed in a boating or watercraft accident, don’t wait to seek legal help. Contact Murphy & Sumy today at 816-477-5009 for a free consultation and take the first step toward obtaining the compensation you deserve.
