Boating Accident Guyana’s Upper Pomeroon River Claims Six Lives

Boating accidents can happen at a moment’s notice and for several reasons. Sometimes, they are due to weather-related factors, such as high tides, strong winds or a rain storm, while other times they occur due to equipment failure. There are times in which these incidents are also the result of negligence or crimes. However, when there is a reason for the accident that cannot be attributed to chance alone, victims are entitled to seek legal help with a boating accident lawyer to protect their rights and see about obtaining compensation for their pain and suffering.

While boat accidents are extremely common, they are each unique and raise levels of concern regarding safety. Accidents on the high seas are extremely serious, often leading to severe injuries or even fatalities. A boat accident that took place yesterday is a prime example of how serious an incident at sea can be.

Authorities report that a boating accident has resulted in the deaths of six people, with one passenger still missing. The incident resulted after two passenger boats collided on the Pomeroon River in Georgetown, Guyana late Tuesday.

According to a police statement, one of the boats was owned by the Region Two administration and the other vessel was owned and piloted by Harrinarine Bhagwandin. The vessels collided while travelling in the vicinity of Siriki, Upper Pomeroon River. Authorities explain that six people travelling in Bhagwandin’s boat lost their lives while a young child, 12 year-old Eli Orlando, sustained injuries and has been admitted to the Charity Hospital. Bhagwandin was among those killed in the collision. Three members of a family were also reported deceased following the tragic maritime crash.

Police explained that the captain of the Region Two vessel is assisting with the investigations. Authorities have also said that heavy rains may have caused the collision, resulting in difficulty for each pilot to see the other.

Region Two Chairman Parmanand Persaud, who was a passenger in one of the vessels, said he was shocked about what happened.

“I cannot believe what just happened in the Pomeroon River,” he said, adding that he and the others on the Region Two boat had been saved by God.

Investigators continue to search for the missing person, whose name has yet to be revealed.

Although this accident may have been the result of unfavorable weather conditions, victims may still be able to claim compensation for the incident. Consulting with a boating accident lawyer is critical to victims and their loved ones because they might be entitled to compensation they might not even know about. With over 200 years of combined experience, the attorneys at Lipcon, Margulies & Winkleman, P.A. have been representing those who have been injured or killed in maritime accidents and are ready to help you if you or someone you know was hurt or killed in a similar tragedy. Call us today to schedule a consultation and determine your viable options for filing a boat accident claim.

Photo Credit: panoramio.com