As the weather warms throughout the spring and summer, more and more San Diego residents will plan a day out on the water. Considering the popularity of water activities, now is a good time to remind boat enthusiasts and causal operators alike about important motorboat safety tips.
The latest record for boating-related injuries and fatalities shows open motorboats resulted in 47% of total reported boat accidents in the United States, as reported by the 2016 North American Safe Boating Campaign. In addition, the same record shows California is one of the top three most dangerous states for reported boating deaths, with 38 total deaths in 2014 alone.
Practicing Motorboat Safety
Boat accidents not only cause property damage, but may result in injury or even death. So, before hitting the water this season, make sure you are well-versed in these vital motorboat safety tips as suggested by the National Safe Boating Council (NSBC):
· Don’t booze and boat. Just like with regular motor vehicles, drinking while operating a motorboat is both dangerous and illegal. Drinking and boating puts you, your passengers, and other boaters at risk.
· Wear your life jacket. A huge risk of injury or death in a boat accident is drowning. Nearly three-quarters of the 548 boating fatalities in 2014 reported death as the cause of drowning, according to the NSBC. Wearing a life vest greatly decreased the chances of drowning-related death or injuries.
· Take a safety course. Boating is a skill. Anyone who is operating a vessel (or even just frequently assisting with the operation) should have a basic skill set. Many boating courses are available to familiarize oneself with safe practices and proper steps to take in the event of an accident or emergency.
· Be alert. It may be tempting to sit back and nod off for a few hours beneath the warm sun, but exercise caution even when docked, drifting, or anchored. Even if your vessel is being properly operated, there is no guarantee other boaters are operating safely.
Reporting a Watercraft Accident
The most important thing to remember with watercraft of any kind is that even though you are practicing smart safety operations, you are still at risk of an accident caused by other boaters. The California State Parks Division of Boating and Waterways requires boating accidents to be reported if the accident causes death, injury, or property damage greater than $500 to either party. Reporting an accident as soon as possible is beneficial in the event a claim is filed by you or another party down the road.
What To Do After Reporting a Boating Accident
Even if you follow all of the motorboat safety steps, accidents can still happen. When they do, acting prudently in the immediate aftermath can be the difference between having the resources to fully recover. An experienced boat accident attorney can provide knowledge and support throughout your case, in addition to free initial consultations.
When it comes to personal injury in San Diego and nearby communities, you need an experienced professional at your side. Contact The Law Office of Patrick G. Shea, APC today for legal guidance in your claim.
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