Crusing the Waterways

Going out on a boat is often thought of as a relaxing leisure-time activity. Most times it is … if the boat is marine safe, and operated by a competent Captain.

Operator error is a common cause of boating accidents. Driving too fast in congested or turbulent waters makes a craft more difficult to control, decreases reaction time, and raises the risk of serious injury and drowning.

Distracted driving is problematic, too. There are fewer boats out on the water than there are cars on a highway, so it’s easier for drivers to become distracted and complacent, especially with all the onboard socializing. But drivers need to be vigilant, so they don’t overlook partially or completely submerged objects, sandbars, other watercraft, heavy wakes, or swimmers.

There are boating regulations to follow as well. “Right-of-way” rules, yielding to sailboats and commercial traffic (both are generally less maneuverable), paying attention to navigation buoys and channel markers, and abiding by no-wake zones are critical to safety.

Boat owners and operators bear the brunt of liability if they fail to provide safety equipment such as life jackets, fire extinguishers, navigational lights, a loud whistle, and flares. Boat rental companies have a duty to make sure their vessels are properly maintained.

A boat with a design, manufacturing, or marketing defect may spur an accident. Sometimes the defect is obvious; other times it requires an exhaustive investigation to uncover the facts.

A boat driver under the influence of drugs or alcohol who causes harm can be held liable. Alcohol may be a social component of a boating outing — it can’t be for the driver.

If you are a victim of boating negligence, contact our firm. We’ll fight to attain fair compensation for your injuries.