For many people, nothing sounds more fun and relaxing than spending a day out on the boat. Unfortunately, that pastime is not always nearly as safe or relaxing as you want it to be. Serious boating accidents happen every summer, and you could suffer life-changing injuries.
To help you avoid that outcome, let’s take a look at some of the top reasons for boating accidents.
First and foremost, you never want to ride in a boat with a driver who has been drinking. It’s illegal, just like drunk driving, and it’s very dangerous. Many people don’t think of it the same way — they’ll drink on a boat even though they’d never drink in a car — but it is the same.
Another potential issue is driving too quickly, especially at night. Limited visibility means the boat can overrun a hazard, like a rock or another boat, before anyone has a chance to react. Remember, boats do not stop or turn like cars, so any sudden surprise is even more dangerous.
A basic lack of attention also causes serious accidents. One of the main things that people say after two boats collide is simply “I never saw them coming.” People get distracted, they fail to maintain a lookout and they take their eyes off of other boat traffic around them. It all increases the odds of a crash.
Knowing how to avoid a serious mistake yourself is just part of the equation. You could still get injured in a boating accident caused by another driver. If you do, make sure you know how to seek compensation for your medical bills and related costs.
