Fatalities in Boating Accidents

In 2008, around 4,800 boating accidents were accounted for by the Coast Guard which resulted to more than 700 boating deaths in the nation. Most of these deaths are caused by drowning as around 90% of victims weren’t wearing their life vests when these accidents occurred.

These accidents are said to cost about $54 million dollars worth of property damages and have caused more than 3,000 injuries. Because of the booming Boating Fatality Statistics, it is important for everyone to be aware of the prevention and what should be done in these situations.

Accident Preventions

In order to prevent accidents that are likely fatal, we should all know the causes of these accidents so we can avoid them and the liability we will be dealing with.

Boating accidents are usually caused by:

• Reckless operation of the boat

• Boat and equipment (including fire extinguishers and floaters) defects

• Negligence on the part of the owner

Each boat must be equipped with floaters so that those who go overboard can be rescued immediately. Owners must be responsible enough in maintaining their property’s good condition and install equipments, such as fire extinguishers, in order to minimize the possibility of damages and injuries.

Usual Accidents

Families and friends often see boats as a wholesome recreational activity where they can spend time bonding with their loved ones. However, there have been a bumber of recreational boating accidents that have permanently compromised their way of living and finances as well.

Here are the usual accidents which can be fatal to victims in recreational boating activities:

• Fall accidents. Wet and slippery floor patches and other path obstructions should be eliminated so as to avoid slip and fall accidents that can result to catastrophic injuries such as brain and spinal injuries.

• Drowning. There must be proper railing and guard rails to keep the boat occupants from tumbling over. Also, floaters and life vests must be ready to use in cases of capsizing and falling overboard.

• Electrocution and fire accidents. This usually happens in the kitchen area or in places where a live wiring is hanging loosely. It is the owner’s responsibility to make sure that wirings are installed properly and that fire can be easily put out by placing fire extinguishers in areas where it will likely be needed.

• Equipment malfunctions. Manufacturers must make sure that the equipments they release is tested and has good quality in order to prevent liability in cases of accidents.

Victims can seek compensation from the party responsible for the accident. They must immediately ask for the assistance and advice of personal injury lawyers who are experts in dealing with these cases.

These cases should be evaluated first by expert lawyers as to the proper cause of action so as not to waste time on claims that will eventually be rejected due to lack of merit.

About The Author To help you deal with issues involved in boating accidents, consult with our skilled accident lawyers. Log on to our website at http://www.askaccidentlawyers.com/ and avail of our free case evaluation.