Thousands of people are injured during boating accidents every year throughout the United States. In 2020, Florida alone reported 836 boat accidents, which led to 79 fatalities and hundreds of injuries. This was the highest number of boating accidents in the state in several years.
Tourists and residents enjoy watersports, fishing, and a range of other aquatic activities throughout the year in the Boca Raton area due to the constantly warm weather. Understanding the common causes of boating accidents can help you be prepared to avoid an accident or be ready to protect your rights if you suffer injuries in a crash.
The following are some of the most common causes of boating accidents. If you suffered injuries, consult with a Boca Raton boat accident lawyer right away.
Not Accounting for Weather and Dangerous Waters
Boat operators must remain aware of changing weather conditions at all times on the open water. Operators must also study the weather conditions before going out on the water in any vessel. Rogue waves and wakes can cause boats to capsize and injure everyone on board.
Violating Navigation Rules
Maritime navigation rules exist to protect captains and passengers aboard all vessels on the open water. Operators who fail to follow maritime navigation rules may collide with other boats or strike buoys. Capsizing is always a risk when an operator violates maritime navigation rules.
Engine Failures
Maintaining a boat in good working condition means keeping it docked in a safe area and making sure that it has oil and gasoline. Engine failures on the open water can cause a vessel to take on water and capsize if the coast guard does not respond in time.
Speeding
Speeding is dangerous on both land and water, but the water can be unpredictable for even seasoned operators. Speeding over open water can cause catastrophic collisions with other vessels, buoys, and sandbars. Responsible boat operators always travel at moderate speeds without endangering their own lives or the lives of others.
Inexperienced Boat Operators
Operators who lack experience are more at risk of causing a boating accident or being involved in a boating accident. Everyone involved with operating a boat should receive proper training and know how to handle a boat during any emergency situations that may arise.
Improper Lookout
Designated lookouts who fail by sight or hearing to see other vessels, hazards, and threats may cause collisions and other dangerous boating accidents to occur. Lookouts are important during any type of weather while anyone is operating a vessel on open water.
Operator Inattention
Vessel operators must take precautions while operating a boat, and this includes being attentive and alert to the conditions around the boat. Attentive operators can view potential hazards, unsafe weather conditions, and other warning signs that may indicate the potential for danger.
A Boca Raton Boating Accident Attorney Can Help
If you or a loved one has been injured during a boating accident, then it is important for you or your loved one to retain legal representation. Boating accidents cases can be complex, and it is beneficial to have an attorney on your side. Contact Demand the Limits Personal Injury Attorneys today for a free case evaluation.
