3 Common Causes of Boating Accidents [Explained]

Boating accidents can happen sporadically due to negligence and other unforeseen circumstances. They can put the occupants of the boats at risk of bruises, cuts, head injuries, and even drowning. After getting into a maritime accident, you can speak to a boat accidents attorney to help you file a claim if you weren’t at fault. 

The top three common causes of boating accidents include the following:

Operator or Passenger Inexperience

Boating accidents can be caused by operator inexperience or passengers who are inexperienced in boating and lack the knowledge to safely operate a vessel. Those unfamiliar with vessel operation should take a training course or familiarize themselves with relevant rules and regulations in order to avoid causing an accident.

Boat Collision

Boat collisions are the most common type of boating accident and can occur due to operator negligence or failure to obey navigation rules. Boaters should be aware of their surroundings at all times in order to avoid a collision with another boat or object. Additionally, they should make sure that they have enough distance between themselves and other vessels when approaching turns or entering narrow channels.

Bad Weather

Poor weather conditions can be a major cause of boating accidents, making it difficult to see other vessels or obstacles in the water and challenging boat operators to handle their vessels safely. Boaters should check the forecast before going out on the water and adjust their plans accordingly if bad weather is expected.

What You Can Do To Prevent Boat Accidents

By understanding the causes of boating accidents and following safety protocols, boaters can help to ensure their own safety as well as the safety of others on the water. Additionally, they should wear a life jacket at all times and make sure that their vessel is properly equipped with all necessary safety equipment. 

By taking these precautions, boaters can enjoy a safe and enjoyable time on the water.

Common Injuries Caused By Boating Accidents

Boating accidents can cause a variety of injuries, ranging from minor scrapes and bruises to much more serious trauma. Common injuries caused by boating accidents include:

Traumatic Brain Injuries

Traumatic brain injuries happen when a person suffers a blow to the head and can result in long-term cognitive or physical impairments.

Spinal Cord Injuries

Spinal cord injuries occur when the vertebrae of the spine are damaged, resulting in loss of feeling or mobility.

Burns

Boating accidents can cause burns from contact with hot surfaces or flames caused by ignited fuel or oil.

Broken Bones

Falls on a boat or collision with another vessel can cause broken bones and sprains.

Drowning

Drowning is the most serious potential injury from a boating accident and can occur due to falls overboard, capsizing, or collisions.

Internal Organ Damage

Traumatic impacts from a collision or fall can cause damage to internal organs.

Lacerations And Abrasions

Lacerations and abrasions can be caused by contact with sharp objects or surfaces on the boat.

Who Is Liable for a Boating Accident?

A boating accident attorney can help to determine who is liable for a boating accident and pursue compensation on behalf of the injured party. Depending on the circumstances, liability may lie with one or more of the following:

The Boat Operator

The operator may be liable for an accident if the accident was caused by their negligence or failure to follow applicable rules and regulations.

The Manufacturer 

The boat manufacturer may be liable if a design defect on the vessel caused or contributed to the accident.

Third Parties

Third parties, such as another vessel operator, may be liable for an accident if their negligence or reckless behavior was a contributing factor.

The Boat Owner

The owner of the boat may be held liable for an accident if they failed to maintain the vessel in a safe condition.

The State Government

The local government may be liable if a failure to maintain navigational aids or other hazardous conditions caused the accident.

How a Boat Accident Lawyer Can Help You

A boat accident lawyer can help to determine who is liable for a boating accident and pursue compensation on behalf of the injured party. A boat accident attorney can help you understand your rights and options and will work with you to pursue the best possible outcome for your case.

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