Bienville Parish Native Dies Onboard Sinking Boat in Chicago

In late July, a yacht celebrating a birthday party in Lake Michigan capsized with more than a dozen people on board.  

Despite the Chicago Police Department’s Marine Unit’s speedy rescuing efforts, one passenger, Lorenzo Tobin, unfortunately, did not make it out alive and was declared dead near Chicago’s 31st Street Harbor.

Negligence for Capsized Boat Injuries

Under maritime law, which governs incidents like this Lake Michigan tragedy, the boat owner or operator might be liable if found negligent. Negligence could include failing to maintain the vessel or not managing it properly under adverse conditions.

Understanding these laws is crucial for injured passengers who are considering legal action, such as those from the ill-fated party yacht. They can file personal injury claims if negligence is involved in any way.

Looking into a case like this is about getting into specifics—was the yacht seaworthy? Were safety protocols followed? Were there ignored warning signs leading up to the incident?

“These questions help paint a clear picture of who’s truly at fault and guide victims through their quest for justice,” says our own personal injury lawyer Jonathan Harris. Experienced maritime lawyers can assist in ensuring a proper investigation to get answers as to why this happened and how it can be prevented in the future

Reaching out to legal teams like Schechter, Shaffer & Harris might be your next best move. They know the questions to ask and the evidence needed to help make a compelling case for compensation.