So many things can go badly when a boat is involved. Since 2020 there has been a surge in boat purchases and a rise in boating accidents and fatalities. Although licensing requirements do exist, they are not widely followed or enforced. Sadly, this includes some operators who’ve had their driver’s license revoked for behavior on the highway.
Since licensing and training requirements are rarely followed or enforced, there are many boat drivers who lack the training or experience to safely operate a boat. This lack of experience is often accompanied by consumption of alcohol which can lead to disastrous consequences. Even responsible, well-trained boaters are often injured by the carelessness of those who are not.
Once on the water, many boat drivers are more concerned about what is happening on the boat and are less aware of what is going on around them. This can lead to the boat driver crossing into the path of another boater or not seeing a swimmer or downed wakeboarder in the water. Since boats do not react like cars do, it is often hard for the driver to stop the boat or turn it in time to avoid a collision with another boat or swimmer.
Once you get on the water the issues are just starting. Many people are more worried about the boat than the passengers on their boat or other boats. Infrequent use of life vests in the harbor is commonplace because the danger doesn’t appear as immediate to some. Children can easily drown in one inch of water and in excess of 25% of all drownings happen in less than 3 feet of water. A slow-moving boat has minimal steering and it’s often easy for even operator to fall victim to this reality. Boats are actually steered from the rear and as a result they are far less predictable that the steering in a car.
Safety and sobriety may matter more on a boat than anywhere else and the liability and driving under the influence laws are virtually identical. Always wear an approved safety vest and require every passenger wear an approved vest as well no matter the objection or how strong a swimmer they say they are. As the captain, you are responsible for your passengers and may be held accountable if something goes wrong. If you are injured as a result of someone else’s actions call the harbor police and request assistance and gather as much information as possible. Enjoy your time on the water!
We represent people who are injured because of the careless and reckless acts of others. At the end of the day your case can only be settled one time and you need to know all of the facts beforehand. The reason that insurance companies have paid our clients in excess of $130,000,000.00 is that we get the facts and are not intimidated at the prospect of going to trial when insurance companies fail to offer full compensation. We help with serious injuries that require serious representation. We are the Law Offices of Guenard & Bozarth, LLP. Our attorneys have more than 60 years of experience specializing in only representing injured people. Call GB Legal 24/7/365 at 888-809-1075 or visit www.gblegal.com We would be honored to represent you!
