Boat Defect Case Results in Significant Confidential Settlement Obtained by Daniel D. Walker

South Padre Island, Texas – Attorney Daniel D. Walker of Clark, Fountain, Littky-Rubin & Whitman has secured a significant confidential settlement in an out of state marine product defect case that involved a catastrophic injury to a passenger aboard a charter vessel.

The incident occurred when the passenger was ejected from the boat and struck by the boat’s propeller, resulting in life-threating injuries. An out of state lawyer for the injured passenger engaged Daniel D. Walker and the attorneys at Clark, Fountain, Littky-Rubin & Whitman as co-counsel to investigate the incident and represent the injured passenger in a case against the manufacturers of the boat and its components.

Through a detailed investigation, Walker uncovered compelling evidence of dangerous design flaws which failed to protect occupants from ejection and propeller strikes. Walker’s investigation included a full analysis of the local state and federal laws and regulations, including analysis of U.S. Coast Guard regulations governing vessel construction and equipment under 46 CFR Part 177. Working with marine safety experts, attorney Walker also demonstrated how safer designs would have prevented occupant ejection and significantly reduced the risk of injury from a propeller strike.

“This wasn’t an isolated malfunction. It was a preventable failure in design,” said Daniel D. Walker. “When manufacturers ignore or fail to consider foreseeable hazards, the consequences can be devastating and life-altering. Our investigation proved how easily this injury could have been avoided.”

The evidence gathered during litigation established clear liability on the part of the manufacturers, and ultimately the case was resolved by confidential settlement. The confidential settlement provides the injured client with vital compensation for extensive medical care, future treatment needs, and long-term recovery.

This case highlights the critical importance of engineering accountability and regulatory compliance in marine vessel design and manufacturing, particularly for components with direct impact on passenger safety.

The boat manufacturing industry is not subject to the same rigorous safety standards as motor vehicles due to relatively limited federal regulation and oversight. This lack of regulation creates a breeding ground for a multitude of boat defects that can lead to accidents and injuries. From faulty hulls and malfunctioning engines to poorly designed steering systems and safety equipment, boat defects pose significant risks to occupants. 

The boating industry generated an estimated $54 billion dollars in 2024. It is crucial that manufacturers be held accountable to ensure profits are not prioritized over the safety of consumers. Through the resolution of this case, Daniel D. Walker has not only secured justice for his client but has also taken an important step towards safer practices within the marine vessel industry.

About Clark, Fountain, Littky-Rubin & Whitman

Clark, Fountain, Littky-Rubin & Whitman is a nationally recognized plaintiff personal injury powerhouse with a proven record of success in high-stakes product liability and catastrophic injury cases. The firm has represented clients in more than 28 states, including complex claims involving defective boats, marine components, and safety-critical equipment. Known for its deep investigative resources, technical expertise, and trial experience, the firm consistently holds manufacturers accountable when design failures put lives at risk.