Boat Accident Lawyer in Warwick, RI

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Were you hurt in a boating accident off Warwick? Warwick sits on Greenwich Bay, Apponaug Cove, Warwick Neck, and the Oakland Beach shoreline, some of the busiest recreational water in Rhode Island. Most operators are careful. The ones who are not tend to be inexperienced, distracted, overloaded, or drinking, and on the water there is no lane, no brake, and often no police report.

Call (401) 288-3888 for a free, confidential consultation. No fee unless we win.

How Michael F. Campopiano Can Help After a Boating Accident in Warwick

Boating claims are harder to build than road claims. There is rarely a police crash report, witnesses scatter at the end of the day, and the vessel can be repaired, sold, or hauled out before anyone inspects it.

Rhode Island requires the operator or owner of a vessel involved in an accident that injures anyone to give immediate notice to the Department of Environmental Management or a nearby police office, and requires the owner to file a written report within five days where damage exceeds $500, under R.I. Gen. Laws § 46-22-21 and § 46-22-22. That filing is often the only official record of what happened, which is why we move to obtain it immediately.

Why Should I Hire a Warwick Boat Accident Lawyer?

Marine insurance does not work like auto insurance, and the policies differ sharply from one vessel to the next. Rental and charter operators often carry their own coverage with their own exclusions.

We read the coverage, find the witnesses before the season ends, and deal with the carrier so you can focus on recovering.

What Types of Damages Are Available After a Warwick Boating Accident?

Under Rhode Island law you can pursue:

Medical bills and rehabilitation, past, present, and future.
Lost wages and loss of earning capacity.
Pain and suffering, including the fear of the water that often follows.
Property damage, covering your vessel, equipment, and belongings.
Wrongful death damages, where a family has lost someone on the water.

Boating Accidents in Warwick: What the Evidence Decides

The report is often the only record. Rhode Island requires immediate notice to DEM or police when a boating accident injures anyone, and an owner’s written report within five days where damage exceeds $500.

Witnesses vanish with the season. Other boaters, marina staff, and dock crews are frequently gone within days.

The vessel is evidence. Damage pattern, maintenance history, safety equipment, and capacity all matter, and all disappear once a boat is repaired or hauled out.

Harbor speed limits apply. State law authorizes 5 mph speed limits in Warwick’s public harbors under R.I. Gen. Laws § 46-22-23, and a violation is a misdemeanor. An operator who ran through a harbor at speed has a lot to explain.

The owner can be liable, too. Under R.I. Gen. Laws § 46-22-15, a boat’s owner is liable for negligent operation by anyone using it with permission. Our guide to who is liable for a boating accident in Rhode Island covers owners, rental companies, and the federal limitation rules.

Fault is shared, not all-or-nothing. Rhode Island uses pure comparative negligence under R.I. Gen. Laws § 9-20-4, so you can recover even if you are found partly at fault, with your award reduced by your share.

Deadlines. Generally three years from the date of the accident under R.I. Gen. Laws § 9-1-14(b), and federal maritime law sets the same three-year limit under 46 U.S.C. § 30106. Act sooner: the evidence above disappears long before then.

Common Boating Accident Types We Handle in Warwick

Around Warwick we see injuries concentrated on Greenwich Bay, Apponaug Cove, Warwick Neck, and the Oakland Beach shoreline, where recreational traffic, moorings, and swimmers share tight water.

Operating under the influence: Sun, wind, and motion magnify alcohol’s effect.
Inexperienced operators: Including renters handed the wheel with minimal instruction.
Excessive speed and reckless operation: Reckless operation causing serious injury carries criminal exposure of up to five years in Rhode Island, and up to ten where a death results.
Overloading: Exceeding capacity or seating riders on bows and gunwales.
Propeller strikes: Often catastrophic, and frequently the result of not cutting the engine near swimmers.
Missing safety equipment: Life jackets absent, wrong-sized, or stowed out of reach.
Poor maintenance: Steering and throttle failures, especially on rental vessels.

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Law Offices of Michael F. Campopiano

5.0

Based on 167 reviews

Aly Santiago

2 days ago

I was involved in a car accident and was fortunate enough to have Franchesca helping me through the entire process\. From the very beginning, she went above and beyond to make sure I understood everything and never felt like I was dealing with the situation alone. Franchesca was incredibly patient, compassionate, and responsive. She always took the time to answer my questions, explain things clearly, and guide me through every step. She genuinely cared about my case and about making sure I was okay. I never felt like I was just another client\. I also want to recognize Michael Campopiano for his professionalism and for the way my case was handled from beginning to end. Thanks to the entire team’s hard work and dedication, I was very pleased with the settlement I received. I am truly grateful to Franchesca, Michael, and the entire firm for everything they did for me. Franchesca especially went above and beyond, and I will always appreciate the fact that she never gave up on me. I highly recommend this firm to anyone who needs help after an accident.

Nicol Mendez

1 week ago

Matt Glaude

2 weeks ago

Edyna Rodriguez

3 weeks ago

My husband and I have had a string of bad luck with car accidents, in the past about 10 years we’ve had at least seven. Since we found attorney Campopiano we don’t worry. We call him at the scene and he gives us guidance and makes sure we’re taken care of right away. By the time we get home we have an email of the documents to get started with the case. Whenever there’s a concern him or his amazing bilingual staff is there to address them and put us at ease right away. When the coverage available is not enough to cover our damage he even reduces his fees. Thank you, thank you, thank you for always being there at every scary and unexpected car accident.

jimmy garcia

3 weeks ago

I had a great experience with Michael F. Compoiano and his entire law office team. From the beginning, they treated me with respect, professionalism, and genuine care. They were always there to answer my questions, explain everything clearly, and keep me informed throughout the entire process. I truly felt like they had my best interests in mind and were working hard to get the best possible outcome for me. I’m extremely grateful for everything they did and for the way they handled my case. I would highly recommend Michael F. Compoiano and his team to anyone looking for a hardworking, professional, and trustworthy law office. Thank you to the entire team for everything!

Christina Libby

3 weeks ago

I had a good experience with The Law Office. Michael was very open and helpful. Would like to have had better and more consistent communication with paralegal as stated every thirty days one would Reach out. Otherwise I was very happy and would Work with Michael again!!

Nicole Duffy

2 months ago

Michael Campopiano and his team went above and beyond throughout my case. They were responsive, worked efficiently, and truly fought for me every step of the way. My case was very complex, but Michael’s experience and dedication helped me achieve the best outcome possible. I highly recommend this firm to anyone looking for an attorney who genuinely cares and gets results. Every interaction I had with the office was positive. Everyone was kind, compassionate, professional, and always made me feel supported. You can tell this team truly cares about their clients, and I’m incredibly grateful for everything they did.

Adam Tout

3 months ago

From the moment I started my intake call, all the way through my case everyone at the office was wonderful. Their attention to detail and compassion is only outshined by their passion for making sure they get you the best possible outcome for your case. I would recommend anyone who’s been in an accident of any kind and needs legal assistance to come here for it. 12/10 experience on the phone and in person at their office, which is super simple to get to.

Anonymously Yours

5 months ago

I had an excellent experience with the Law Offices of Michael F. Campopiano. After another lawyer told me I had no case, this team took the time to listen, review everything, and fight for me and they got results. Francesca did a tremendous amount of the legwork on my case and was absolutely outstanding throughout the entire process. She was professional, responsive, and made sure everything was handled properly. Her hard work and dedication truly made a stressful situation much easier to manage. Even the secretary was incredibly helpful, kind, and supportive whenever I called with questions or needed updates. I’m beyond grateful for the effort this office put into my case. If you want a law firm that actually cares and works hard for you, I highly recommend them. T. Sanders

Saderi Belliard

6 months ago

Outstanding attorney and amazing team. Professional, knowledgeable, and genuinely caring throughout the entire process. They kept me informed every step of the way and always made time to answer my questions. His assistant Franshesca was also friendly, efficient, and very helpful, making everything smooth and stress-free. I’m very grateful for their hard work and highly recommend them to anyone in need of legal help.

Tatiana Dias

6 months ago

I had a great experience with the Law Office of Michael Campopiano. From start to finish, the entire team was supportive, knowledgeable, and attentive. Rosie, my assigned paralegal, was excellent. She was always professional, responsive, and took the time to answer any questions or concerns I had throughout the process, which made everything much less stressful. Corissa, the attorney, was also extremely helpful and informative. She made sure I understood each step and provided clear guidance along the way. Michael was amazing as well, very involved in my case and genuinely cared about the outcome. It was clear that he and his team are dedicated to their clients. Overall, I was very satisfied with the service I received and would highly recommend this office to anyone in need of legal assistance.

Michellay Smith

7 months ago

He is awesome! Very attentive to the case that he works. Everything he does is and the best interest of his clients! Hard worker, Great communicating skills, The best Court appointed lawyer I’ve had so far! He got my case dismisse. I don’t ever plan on ever having to go to court ever again. lol But if I do Mark Robert’s Will forever and always be who I asked to be my Court Appointed lawyer. If you’re able to pick your lawyer! Thank you so much Mark Roberts you really are a great lawyer!!!

Mark Mckenna Sr

8 months ago

Mike and his staff did an amazing job with my case, and the result was more than I could have hoped for. They were very attentive to my needs, and always answered my questions and inquiries in a timely/efficient manner. I would highly recommend and his staff to anyone needing the services of an attorney.

Junior Salas

8 months ago

john olobri

8 months ago

From top to bottom it was easy, professional and informative. Couldn't have asked for anything else from them.

Marvin Root

9 months ago

Melody Florio

9 months ago

D&M Hardwood flooring

9 months ago

In the past, I’ve sent many people to Micheal and his team and he’s always treated them very very fairly now. It was my turn to use him along with my family and we got into a car accident and him and his team went to work thoroughly and did a great job for us. They got us more money than we were expecting, not only that, but it was in a timely fashion they were very professional, very honest and easy to communicate with and get a hold of when we had questions. I highly recommend Micheal and his team to anybody that’s looking for an amazing lawyer to help out with car accidents or other legal issues that he takes care of Thank you, Micheal. It was a pleasure working with you, my friend. Have a very merry Christmas and a happy new year.

Birhat Kaya

9 months ago

I’m appreciate it to Mr. Campopiano and his team, they were very professional in the process and they get the best results possible, I strongly recommend them.

Koriano Khamvongsa

10 months ago

I am incredibly grateful for the outstanding service I received during my personal injury case following my automobile accident in March. From the very beginning, the team was attentive and supportive, making me feel valued as a client. I finished my treatment in early September, and to my surprise, my case was settled just two months later! What truly impressed me was the amount of compensation I received. It's significantly more than what I got from other cases where I treated for twice as long, and those took much longer to resolve. The efficiency and effectiveness of this team are truly commendable. Communication was top-notch throughout the entire process. I felt informed and involved every step of the way, and I was particularly pleased that I could reach out to Mike directly whenever I had questions. His accessibility made a world of difference and reassured me that I was in good hands. If you're looking for a dedicated team that delivers results quickly and effectively, I highly recommend this firm. They exceeded my expectations, and I couldn't be happier with the outcome of my case!

Kay

10 months ago

Never been in a car accident before. When I tell you I was stressed to the max, decided to reach out and I’m SO happy I did. They asked me a few questions and took care of the rest. Got my check within 5 months!! You guys will not regret calling Michael!

Margarita Diaz

10 months ago

Very happy with the care and attention that I received by everyone at the firm, would highly recommend Michael Campopiano to anyone that need representation.

Meaghan Dunbar

10 months ago

I was involved in a serious car accident, and my attorney was on top of things from start to finish. Their knowledge of the insurance process helped me navigate a very challenging situation. They encouraged me to fight for what I deserved, advising me against settling too quickly. They assisted in facilitating my medical treatments and were always available to answer questions. I felt well informed during the entire process. I Highly recommend The Law Offices of Michael Campopiano if you are injured in a car accident.

Abraham Diaz

10 months ago

Mr Campopiano handled accident case he very friendly stays in touch for updates and status chiropractor is very convenient secretary is very welcoming very satisfied and will recommend to family and friends

Lindsay Petit

11 months ago

My name is Taylor and without a doubt I had a 10/10 experience with Michael. He was very professional, communicated with me often every step of the way and got the best possible outcome for my case. I am reassured that having Michael represent me was the best decision I made. Thank you Michael!

Makeda Payton

1 year ago

I would recommend this law office for personal injury to all of my friends, family, and strangers. I received one settlement check several months ago, and I was contacted just yesterday about another check that they found more money settled out to me! Turnover time was also shorter than I expected it to be. Thank you Law Offices of Michael Campopiano for all that you've done for me.

Jessica Soprano

1 year ago

I had a bad fall, causing me to break my leg in two places. Michael and his team fought hard for three years to win my case for me. At the end, I was extremely happy with my result, and would highly recommend Michael and his team to everyone.

Louie13thh

1 year ago

Gianna A

1 year ago

1000/10 Recommend Campopiano’s office. Very professional & proficient from the front desk staff all the way to the lawyer himself. My case took not even close to a year! They move quick … call them !!

Kristie Johnson

1 year ago

Mike and his staff are the absolute best! It took many years to settle but that is because he worked so hard and got me every penny I deserved! He would not give up and kept me informed on my case every step of the way! Highly recommend!

Keri Dakota (Kerianna)

1 year ago

Highly recommend this lawfirm I was very pleased on how mike handled my case from start to finish all the staff were amazing I will never use another lawfirm thank you all so much!!

Biah M.G.

1 year ago

On May 1st at 4pm I went to pick up my blessings from this firm. The receptionist was very welcoming the facility and the service in point. For great service, I recommend if you want great business and a law firm that will seek your interest, I recommend and approve of The Law Office of Michael F Campopiano

cristian muralles

1 year ago

Yo these guys looked out I’m in a new whip, watch, kicks, it was the little jumpstart I needed to get me going. 5 months and I got it. Hit em up and be patient call every now and then and that’s it, be patient ock you’ll get paid.

Elizabeth O'Meara

2 years ago

Joshua Howell

2 years ago

Mike and his team do EXCEPTIONAL WORK got me my money quick and very professional with me and my family. The receptionists are also great and I am proud to have such a great agency to go to when I need services like these. THANK YOU MIKE

lauren parenteau

2 years ago

It’s been Many years since I first was introduced to Michael. My personal experience having Mike as my PI Lawyer , has been a blessing. Michael has proved to me through his hard work and dedication that his clients is his #1 priority. I truly believe Mike has my back, and he will do whatever it takes to make sure you receive the best possible outcome .Thank you Mike for always working so hard at what you do and showing your clients they have a lawyer that actually is on their side and will fight hard for what we deserve!!!

McKayla Weaver

2 years ago

I cannot say enough good things about the Law Offices of Michael F. Campopiano. From start to finish, they turned an extremely traumatic experience into something manageable, and for that, I am forever grateful. I was involved in a dog bite incident that left me feeling overwhelmed and unsure of how to proceed. Thankfully, a friend of mine who was already a client told them about my situation. To my surprise, they reached out to me directly, taking the initiative to explain my options and guide me through the process. Their team went above and beyond to ensure that I felt supported and informed every step of the way. They handled everything—from paperwork to negotiations—seamlessly, which completely eased my anxiety. What could have been an incredibly stressful and daunting lawsuit turned into a smooth and almost effortless process, thanks to their dedication and professionalism. I was especially impressed with how they fought for my case. They didn’t settle for the first offer but instead pushed for what I truly deserved. In the end, they secured a settlement that was far beyond anything I ever expected. Their persistence and expertise showed me that I was in the best hands possible. Lawsuits can be stressful, but Michael F. Campopiano and his team made the entire experience not only bearable but even empowering. If you’re looking for a legal team that genuinely cares, works tirelessly, and delivers outstanding results, look no further. I am so thankful for their help and would recommend them to anyone in need of legal representation. Thank you for everything!

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Areas We Serve

“When you choose us, you can be rest assured that you will receive personalized attention and a comprehensive legal strategy tailored to your unique circumstances. Our skilled lawyers will guide you through every step of the legal process, explaining your rights and options in clear, straightforward language.

We handle a wide range of personal injury cases, including car accidents, slip and falls, Dog Bite, and more. No matter the complexity of your case, we have the expertise and resources to fight for the compensation you deserve.”

Frequently Asked Questions from Boating Accident Victims in Warwick

1. What should I do immediately after a boating accident in Warwick?

Get everyone out of the water and seek medical attention, then make sure the accident is reported. Rhode Island requires immediate notice to DEM or police when anyone is hurt, and the owner must file a written report within five days where damage exceeds $500. Photograph the vessels and get contact details for every witness before they leave the dock.

2. Who can be held responsible besides the operator?

Often more than the operator. Under R.I. Gen. Laws § 46-22-15, the vessel’s owner is liable for negligent operation by anyone using the boat with permission. Responsibility can also extend to a rental or charter company or a maintenance contractor whose work failed. Each may carry separate coverage, which matters when injuries are severe.

3. What if the operator had been drinking?

It strengthens your claim. Rhode Island prohibits operating a vessel while intoxicated, and a blood alcohol level of .08% or more establishes a violation under R.I. Gen. Laws § 46-22.2-3. Reckless operation causing serious bodily injury carries up to five years in prison, and up to ten where a death results (§§ 46-22-9.4 and 46-22-9.3), and the same conduct supports your civil claim.

4. Who will pay for my medical bills after the accident?

Usually the at-fault operator’s liability coverage, and under § 46-22-15 the boat’s owner can be responsible as well when someone else was driving with permission. Marine policies vary widely, so we identify every policy that applies, including any held by a rental company or marina.

5. What if the boat owner or operator has no insurance?

Boat coverage does not work like auto coverage, and some operators carry little or none. We look at every source of recovery: the owner, a rental or charter company, a marina or maintenance contractor, and the terms of any marine policy you carry yourself.

6. How long do I have to file a boating accident claim in Rhode Island?

Generally three years from the date of the accident under R.I. Gen. Laws § 9-1-14(b), and federal maritime law sets the same three-year limit under 46 U.S.C. § 30106. Act sooner: witnesses leave with the season, and a boat can be repaired or hauled out within days.

7. What happens if I was partly at fault for the accident?

Rhode Island’s pure comparative negligence law means you can still recover compensation even if you were partially at fault. Your award is simply reduced by your percentage of responsibility.

8. How can a Warwick boat accident lawyer help me?

We know Warwick waters, the Kent County Superior Court, and how marine carriers handle these claims. We move quickly to secure the official reports and locate witnesses before they scatter, and you pay no fee unless we win.

Contact Our Warwick Boat Accident Attorney for a Free Consultation

At MFC Law, we know a day on the water off Warwick can change a family in seconds. We handle the reports, the insurer, and the investigation while you focus on recovering.

We proudly serve Warwick and communities across Rhode Island. Our team speaks English, Spanish, and Portuguese, so every client feels understood and informed.

Schedule your free, confidential consultation today.

We're here for you.

We fight for every dollar you deserve. No fee unless we’re successful.

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Other Injury Cases We Handle in Warwick

Not the kind of case you were looking for? We handle the full range of personal injury claims in Warwick - same team, same free consultation, and no fee unless we win.

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