Q: can a co-owner of a boat be liable to another co-owner of a boat after one sustains an injury?
A:
It would depend on the conduct of each in the navigation and operation of the boat. Good luck
Tim Akpinar
William John Light agrees with this answer
A: Yes, but it is likely that such a claim would not be covered by the liability insurance covering the boat. Potentially, any recovery would come from the personal assets of the negligent boat owner.
A: Yes. But it depends on the circumstances. Both the nature of the agreement for co ownership and the circumstances regarding the injury may lead to liability of the uninvolved co owner. First if the co ownership is by written agreement carefully review that agreement. Second and assuming this is not a Jones Act General maritime matter where an employer employee relationship is involved then the facts regarding how when where the accident occurred are much more important. If you had no role in how the accident came about likely your risk of liability will be less. But if you had any part in how the accident occurred including failure to properly maintain the boat you may be at risk. Regardless if you co owner is found liable and a judgment entered against him her your co owners joint interest might be subject to levy or execution.
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