Boating Accidents

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

Common Causes for Boating Accidents

Paying attention isn’t the only way to avoid an accident. Many of the causes for a collision between vessels are due to operator negligence. While a boat doesn’t have to crash for a man to go overboard, boat accidents have been known to cause personal injury and wrongful death because of the elements.

Some causes of nautical 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, an increasingly recognized reason for boating accidents is carbon monoxide poisoning. 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. If a loved one has suffered carbon monoxide poisoning while on the water, you are encouraged to contact an attorney with experience in boat accidents & injuries.

Injuries that Can Result from Boat Collisions

According to USCG data, the most common injury sustained while boating in 2013 is laceration. The body part most often affected is the head, followed by the trunk, legs, and the entire body.

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 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 an accident on Ohio or Kentucky waters, our boating accident law firm may be able to help. You may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages and more.

Contact The Boerst Law Office ASAP

The attorneys at The Boerst Law Office have an extraordinary reputation they have earned through many, many years of practice. We are proud to defend our clients using our extensive knowledge, dedication to law and passion for the pursuit of justice.

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