Common Causes of Boating Accidents

 Posted on July 10, 2014 in Personal Injury

Summer is here, and the warm weather allows many to enjoy all that these warmer months have to offer. Boat enthusiasts will surely take to the water to cool off and enjoy the sunny weather, and even participate in a variety of water sports. Many water activities will involve the operation and use of a boat. Unfortunately, not every boating experience is a fun one. If not operated properly, boats can be dangerous not only for drivers and passengers, but for anyone on the water at the same time. In fact, boating accidents cause serious injury and even death.

Accidents on the Water

Below are some of the more common causes of boating accidents and how they can be avoided:

Inexperienced Drivers. Operator inexperience is often the leading cause of boat accidents. Many state agencies and local organizations offer classes on boating education, as well as boating safety classes. Taken together, these classes can inform boaters about relevant boating laws and ensure that their time on the water is safe and enjoyable.

Actions of Passengers. Passengers may obstruct a driver's view or act in an otherwise reckless manner that can cause an accident. Drivers must be responsible for their passengers and keep them seated while the boat is moving.

Failing to Maintain the Boat. If a driver or owner does not properly maintain the watercraft, it is susceptible to equipment failing. This can pose a danger to others while operating the boat or may pose a danger to the driver if they end up stranded.

Reckless Driving. Certain behaviors are to be avoided when operating a boat, including riding too close to another boat, attempting to jump a wake while too close to another boat, irresponsibly riding on the boat, and failing to yield to others when appropriate.

Speeding. Boats should not be driven at the maximum speed capacity. Slow driving in the water not only increases a driver's chances of spotting something in the water to be avoided, but also increases reaction time in case something does go wrong.

Alcohol Use. Boat drivers on the water are held to the same standards as operators of vehicles on the road when it comes to alcohol in their system. The same dangers that should prevent people from drinking and getting behind the wheel of a car should also prevent them from operating a boat.

Accident Injury Attorney

If you have been injured in a boating accident due to someone else's negligence, the attorneys at Mevorah & Giglio Law Offices can help you. Contact our experienced Will County personal injury attorneys today to schedule a consultation. We also serve clients in DuPage County and the surrounding area.