Boating Accidents

Injured in a boating accident? – Contact us immediately for a FREE CONSULTATION!

What are the common causes for boating accidents?

Other than not paying careful attention, many boating accidents are the result of operator inexperience. While a vessel doesn’t necessarily have to crash for a person to go overboard, boating accidents have been known to cause personal injury and wrongful death as a result of the weather and harsh water conditions.

Some causes of boating accidents collisions include:

  • Inexperienced operators
  • Lack of attention
  • Actions of passengers or water skiers
  • Bad weather
  • Failed equipment
  • Operating recklessly
  • Failure to yield
  • Congested waters
  • Hazardous waters
  • Speeding
  • Operating while under the influence of alcohol
  • Exceeding maximum weight capacity
  • Unsafe fuel handling

Shockingly, carbon monoxide poisoning is increasingly becoming a problem as well. It is recommended that boaters not operate if passengers will be exposed to generator or engine exhaust, especially on calm days. If a passenger loses consciousness due to carbon monoxide exposure, they are at risk for much more serious injuries and possibly even death. If a loved one has suffered carbon monoxide poisoning while on the water, you are encouraged to contact immediate emergency medical care.

What are some of the injuries that can result from boat collisions?

According to USCG data, the most common injuries sustained while boating are laceration, concussion and soft-tissue injuries. The parts of the body most often affected are the head, neck, back, and legs.

Aside from lacerations, other common injuries on the water include:
  • Broken bones
  • Scrapes & bruises
  • Sprains & strains
  • Hypothermia
  • Concussion
  • Internal injury
  • Dislocation
  • Burns
  • Shock
  • Loss of limb / amputation
  • Spinal Cord Injury
  • Carbon monoxide poisoning
  • Electrocution

The most common cause of marine deaths is drowning. As when driving, safety equipment is your first line of defense. While wearing a life vest might seem unappealing, 9 of 10 drowning victims may be saved by a life jacket. In most cases, those who have drowned without wearing a life vest did not have time to grab one prior to being flung into the waves.

Contact Our Experienced Boating Accident Attorneys

Due to the size and unique shapes of lake vessels and the harsh environment that can affect the water, the nature of injuries caused in aquatic incidents are often severe, and can be life-altering. If your family has been affected by a boating accident, our boating accident attorneys are ready to help. You may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages and more.

The experienced attorneys at The Boerst Law Office, Inc. have an extraordinary reputation they have earned through many, many years of practice. We proudly represent our clients using our extensive knowledge, dedication to law and our tireless passion justice and fairness.

Contact us today for a FREE CONSULTATION.

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