Every year, people are injured or killed in preventable boating accidents. These people weren’t commercial fishermen trying to haul in nets on an icy deck during a winter storm in Alaska. They were out on the water enjoying a nice day with friends and family, getting a little sun and maybe trying to catch a fish or two.
The Three Most Common Causes of Boating Accidents
Pleasure boating is one of Minnesota’s favorite activities. With more than 10,000 lakes, no one has to travel too far to put their boat in the water. Many people have been enjoying water activities all of their lives, perhaps forgetting that drowning is always a possibility. It’s a certainty that some people don’t bother to show consideration for other’s safety.
The three leading reasons for boating accidents all point toward not taking common sense safety precautions and showing little regard for others. The top three reasons, according to Boating Accident Law Minnesota are:
* Capsizing the boat;
* Falling off the boat;
* Colliding with another boat.
Contributing Factors to Boating Accidents
These are the real, root causes of the boating accidents; every single one is preventable.
* The operator wasn’t paying attention and/or was inexperienced.
* The boat was going too fast.
* The boat was being operated in a careless or reckless manner.
* Alcohol or drugs were involved.
* People took out the boat in bad weather or didn’t pay attention to the forecast.
Safety Precautions
* Wear a life jacket.
* Alcohol, drugs and boating is a dangerous mix.
* New boaters should take a boating safety course.
What to do if There’s a Boating Accident
* Be sure everyone is safe.
* Contact the Coast Guard, marina or police on your radio, supplying latitude and longitude if possible. (Yes, even small boats should be equipped with a VHF marine radio.)
* Get someone’s attention with a flare or signaling device.
* Get the names and contact information of the other boaters.
Hypothermia
In the spring, lake temperatures tend to be lower than 70 degrees, the cutoff temperature for safe swimming. If anyone is in the water too long, hypothermia becomes a real possibility.
When someone is injured in a boating accident due to another boater’s negligence, they are entitled to receive compensation for their injuries. The family-owned Rutzick law firm has over 40 years of combined experience in Boating Accident Law Minnesota. Call today for a free consultation or visit the website at Website.
