The most common cause of non-fatal boating accidents is the inattention of the boat operator. Operator inattention resulted in 654 accidents, 437 injuries, and 50 deaths in boating accidents in 2018, according to the U.S. Coast Guard. Boating operators should always remember to stay safe on the water and stay focused on their surroundings.
Other Causes of Non-Fatal Boating Accidents
The United States Coast Guard has also reported that there are several other common causes of non-fatal boating accidents.
When it comes to equipment failure and boating accidents, it is best to discuss your situation with a Fort Lauderdale boat accident lawyer, as more than one party could be liable for your injuries and material losses. Your attorney will assess the evidence you provide, investigate the accident with experts’ help, interview witnesses, collect data, and help you take legal action against all parties that had some contribution to your accident.
Operator Inexperience and Inattention
Oftentimes, people think that operating a boat is much simpler than a vehicle and become less careful and cautious regarding the operation of a vessel.
A boat operator should know all of the relevant state and federal laws regarding the operation of their boat, as well as the specifics of their boat to operate it safely. Boating safety and education is important, and oftentimes, taking a boater education course can help boating operators understand how to operate a boat more safely. Having more experience and being more attentive to surroundings could prevent thousands of boating accidents yearly.
Improper Lookout
Another common cause of non-fatal boating accidents is improper lookout. Ultimately, this is the failure of a boat operator to appoint a lookout or failing to keep an eye on their surroundings. In many cases, boating accidents happen with regard to improper lookout when water activities such as waterskiing, tubing, or wakeboarding occur and crashes happen with other boats.
Speeding
Many boating accidents are related to speeding. Fast speeds do not allow other boaters enough time to be able to see you, and they do not give you enough time to avoid potential obstacles in the water. Slower speeds make other boats, hazards, or obstacles in the water easier to see, and easier to navigate around.
Alcohol Use
While alcohol-related boating accidents cause the most fatalities, alcohol use is a common cause of many non-fatal boating accidents as well. The blood alcohol concentration levels for a boating operator are the same as those of a motor vehicle. Driving while under the influence of alcohol substantially impairs an operator’s ability to safely operate a boat or vessel.
Equipment Failure
Boats may have malfunctioning parts and equipment just like any other vehicle. In 2018, the United States Coast Guard indicated that a total of 405 accidents were related in some way to equipment failure on a boat or vessel. Make sure to upkeep your boat’s maintenance, and always keep life preservers, flares, and navigation lights on board in case of an emergency.
Contact a Boating Accident Attorney
Most boating accidents are a result of the inexperience, negligence, or recklessness of a boating operator. If you were involved in a boating accident and suffered injuries of any kind, you should seek immediate medical attention. Contact a Fort Lauderdale boating accident attorney at the Law Offices of Anidjar & Levine at 1-800-747-3733 to help you determine your next steps, and help you receive the compensation you deserve for your losses.
