Top Causes of Boating Accidents

When boats collide, it makes the news. For some reason, people think that boating accidents are a rare occurrence when, in reality, they are more common that you may believe. When it comes to these accidents, there are 10 common reasons that they occur. As a boater, whether a driver or passenger, knowing these causes can make your trip a safer one.

No More Gasoline

Keep an eye on the gas tank. Before you leave shore or the dock, calculate how much fuel you will need to get to your destination, stop and return. Add 20 percent to that total just to be on the safe side.

The Ground is Closer Than it Appears

Running aground happens more often than you may think. Most of the time, it’s embarrassing; sometimes it’s much more. Running aground isn’t what will get you…it’s the sudden stop that comes with it.

Stay in the Boat

Falling overboard is another situation that will have you red in the face. In some instances, however, falling out of the boat can be deadly. If anyone falls from your boat, stop the vessel. Many times, it’s being caught in the wake that is the most dangerous for the person in the water.

Being Sunk

A hole in the hull is one of the major reasons a boat takes on water. Be sure to keep wooden bungs aboard so you can plug any holes you find. Without these, you could very well watch your boat sink to the bottom of the lake.

Burning Boats

Fire is a fairly rare occurrence these days because safety equipment is much more advanced. No matter how rare, it is still important to be prepared for a fire. Keep extinguishers on board and keep them charged.

Busted Engines

The U.S. Coast Guard reports that many accidents occur due to mechanical failure. Keep an eye on your instrument panel and get any necessary repairs as soon as possible. To not do so could very well have you stranded.

Speeding

It can be tempting to speed over the water with the wind whipping through your hair. Don’t. Speeding in a boat is as dangerous as speeding in a car. You simply cannot control your vessel as well at extreme speeds.

If you have been injured in a boating accident, please contact our offices as soon as possible. We are here for you and will work to get you the compensation you deserve. Call now.