Top Causes of Boating Accidents

Boating can be a great deal of fun, however, when an accident occurs, the fallout can be devastating. Learn these top causes of boating accidents, how to avoid them, and what to do if you or a loved one are hurt in a boat collision.

Boating While Intoxicated

Operating any vehicle while intoxicated by either drugs or alcohol is dangerous and boating is no different. Boating Under the Influence, or BUI, is against the law and is one of the primary causes of preventable boat accidents.

Speeding

While there aren’t speed limit signs on the water similar to what you would see on the road – except in no wake zones – going too fast can cause your boat to collide with another boat or even hit a wave and capsize.

Inclement Weather

Inclement weather can increase the risk of boating accidents exponentially, depending on how severe the weather is. Most people dock their boats when they see the weather start to get bad or may even decide not to go out on the water at all on a day where severe weather is forecasted. However, those who choose to boat despite inclement weather are at a higher risk for an accident.

Inexperience

Operating a boat is similar to driving a car in that a person must be both of age and skilled enough to do so safely. Inexperience is one of the leading causes of boat accidents; teens and inexperienced boaters often don’t know how to operate the craft properly and may also have difficulty reacting quickly to potentially dangerous situations.

Distracted Boating

Being distracted while operating a boat can have dangerous consequences. Whether you’re having fun with friends, there are loud kids on the boat, or you’re on your cell phone while boating, any distraction can prove to be catastrophic or even fatal. Always pay attention to your boat and your surroundings until you are safely anchored or docked.

Staying Safe While Enjoying Boating Activities

Boating activities, including jet skiing and water tubing, can be a lot of fun when the weather warms up. In order to stay safe on a boat, ensure that you and everyone aboard your craft wear life jackets that fit properly. Don’t operate your boat while intoxicated, stay abreast of current weather conditions, and follow all safety recommendations. These actions will reduce your risk of becoming the victim of a boating accident but unfortunately, accidents do still occur.

When to Contact a Boating Accident Attorney

At Mazow | McCullough, we represent boat accident victims throughout Massachusetts and New Hampshire. Boating accidents can be unique cases and very different from other types of accidents, so it’s crucial to work with an injury attorney who has significant experience in boat collisions.