How to Avoid Boating Accidents this Summer

During the summer, boating trips increase, and accidents are on the rise! 

We all want to go out and enjoy the summer. So, when a sunny day comes along and you’re looking for fun things you can do outdoors with your friends and family, boating is the ultimate stress reliever, and there are so many fun activities to do on a boat as well like fishing, wakeboarding, tubing, waterskiing, paddleboarding and kayaking.   

The Missouri State Highway Patrol is reminding Missourians of boat and swimming safety this summer as the hot weather continues and COVID-9 restrictions ease. So far in the month of June 2021, there have been 16 reported fatal drownings and boating accidents. 

Typically, boating accidents occur in different ways. They can cause extremely serious injuries, including the following: 

• Traumatic brain injuries 
• Hypothermia 
• Head, neck and spinal cord injuries 
• Broken bones and fractures 
• Burns 
• Accidental amputations 
• Serious soft tissue injuries 

Leading cause of boating accidents 

Some of the main factors of boating accidents include: 

• Operator inattention, distraction, inexperience or recklessness.   
• Alcohol and/or drug use 
• Excessive speed 
• Equipment failure.  
• Navigational rules violations
• Bad weather and hazardous waters 

The International Regulations to Prevent Collisions (RIPA), precisely regulates everything related to navigation, both on lights, rights of way, autopilot, maneuvers, and actions to take when a danger presents itself on the boat. Boaters must follow these regulations to keep their passengers safe and enjoy their vacation. 

Each state maintains a legal age standard to be able to drive a boat, as well as taking a course and obtaining a boating certification/license. Remember that not following the regulations and causing an accident due to the recklessness and/or negligence can result in suspension, fines and even revocation of the license. 

The Missouri State Highway Patrol is always reminding Missourians of boat and swimming safety and especially this summer as the hot weather continues and COVID-9 restrictions ease. 

So far in the month of June 2021, there have been 16 reported fatal drownings and boating accidents. More drowning deaths in June than any previous June in the last decade. 

Continue reading: Amusement Park Accidents are more common than you think. 

How to avoid getting injured while boating? 

Just as you should not drive while intoxicated, you should not drink when boating, especially if you are the only person who is qualified to drive the boat. You can put your life and the lives of others in danger. 

Anyone who is about to enter the water, whether in a boat or any powerboat, must first consider the weather conditions, boating during a storm is not the smartest to do. 

As mentioned before, proper training is essential, but more than anything else having the proper safety equipment inside the boat: life jackets, flares, first aid kit, fire extinguishers, anchor, etc. It is estimated that more than 50% of people die in a boating accident because they are not wearing life jackets.  

Boat accident insurance

Just as there is insurance for automobiles, there is insurance for boats, to protect property damage and physical injuries that a boating accident may cause. The difference is the danger of drowning, and it must be considered. Prevention is paramount in these cases. 

Remember to constantly maintain the boat, yacht, or motorboat you decide to drive, even if it is rented, make sure it has insurance and has been recently maintained. 

 If you were injured in a boating accident in Kansas or Missouri, we strongly recommend you seek legal advice from an experienced attorney. 

At The Devkota Law Firm, we act quickly to gather the necessary information and evidence as quickly as possible: 

• We talk to witnesses 
• Go to the scene of the accident 
• Investigate the boat with boating experts who can help us better understand what went wrong 

If you have been injured in a boating accident, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical bills, lost income and pain and suffering. Our personal injury law firm does not charge a fee unless you win a settlement. Call us or fill out a contact form online for a free case evaluation.