Boating accidents are a common occurrence in Florida where year-round boating is a way of life. Though you might think that being out in the openness of the water makes boating accidents unlikely, they occur more often than you might think! If you are involved in a boating accident, Injury Florida Law Firm is here to protect your rights and help you get medical care that you need.
Boating accidents can occur for a number of reasons. Causes of accidents in Tampa Bay could include:
- Boating under the influence. Federal data shows that alcohol use is the leading cause of fatal and non-fatal boating accidents, including accidental drownings.
- Operator errors. Any mistakes made while operating a boat can be life threatening and lead to accidents. Some common mistakes might include getting lost (especially at night or in inclement weather), speeding, and navigational errors.
- Failure to pay attention to surroundings. It is imperative to pay attention when you are out on a boat as rocks, other boats and vessels, swimmers, and weather conditions can quickly lead to an accident. This is one of the leading causes of accidents nationwide.
- Environmental causes/wakes/debris. Any body of water is inherently dangerous, and rocks, debris, large waves, and bad weather can easily kill boat passengers and operators who are unprepared. Inexperienced boaters might run into trouble more easily than more experienced boaters.
- Equipment failure. Boats require the same kind of maintenance that your vehicle does, and the moving parts and engine can fail if proper maintenance has not been adhered to. Product defects can also lead to accidents, serious injury, and even death.
- Lack of preparedness. If you do not have the proper safety equipment such as life vests, flares, medical supplies, etc. Then you shouldn’t be out on a boat.
- Propeller safety. All boats have a “safe zone” which should be closely monitored and adhered to. Propellers can be quite sharp and can cause severe injury and even death. Failure to cut the engine when people are swimming, and not checking the water before reversing the boat can cause injury, sometimes fatal.
- Electrical Cords. All power cords on the boat should be rated for and suitable for marine use. Never leave a shore power cord on the dock with one end connected, a live cord can be quite dangerous if someone falls into the water.
Common Boating Accident Injuries:
While not an exhaustive list, here are some common injuries sustained while involved in a boating accident:
- Lacerations
- Torn ligaments
- Broken bones
- Soft tissue injury
- Burns
- Traumatic brain injuries from lack of oxygen to the brain (common in people who have fallen overboard)
- Amputations
- Carbon monoxide poisoning
Seeking Help During a Boating Accident
Boating accidents don’t always involve collisions with other boats or objects. Drowning is also a common reason for deaths while out on the water. In the event of a boating accident, you should seek medical attention immediately, and always contact the local authorities for help. Police officers, EMT crews, and members of the Coast Guard are trained to help injured boaters or passengers.
Filing a Boating Accident Lawsuit
You should also contact attorney Anna Katherine Stone at Injury Florida Law Firm if you believe negligent or reckless actions caused your accident.
Have you or a loved one been injured due to the negligence of another?
Call attorney Anna Katherine Stone at Injury Florida Law Firm, P.A. at 833-LAW-STONE. Our operators are standing by 24 hours, 7 days per week to get your case moving. There is no charge for a consultation and we don’t get paid until you do!
Don’t delay – call our office today. We are working to help you.