How To Minimize The Chances Of A Boating Accident
With boats as a year-round option for fishing, relaxation, work, and more in the Delray Beach area, accidents on the water are bound to happen. However, there are steps that you can take as an operator and passenger to minimize the chances of a boating accident. At Earnhart Law, our experienced Delray Beach boating accident attorneys provide top tier legal advocacy for our clients injured in boating accidents. If you or someone you know has been involved in a boating crash call or contact us today to schedule a free consultation of your case.
Safety First
Safety is important to minimizing the chances of a boating accident. Regularly maintain and inspect a vessel before going out on the water. Check the throttle, steering, switches, cables, fuel, and battery lines. Be sure that everyone on the boat has a life jacket and that they are within easy reach. Every boat should have all the necessary safety equipment before you go out.
Boat with a Sober Operator
Enjoying a beverage while out on the water is a common occurrence, but it is important that the person operating the boat remains sober. Operating a boat under the influence of alcohol can significantly increase the chances of an accident, as the driver has a longer reaction time to hazards, impaired cognitive function, and lapses in judgment. If everyone in your group wants to enjoy the day on the water, consider hiring a professional to operate the boat so they can remain sober the entire time.
Monitor Water and Weather Conditions
Another way to minimize the chances of a boating accident is to monitor water and weather conditions prior to and during an outing on a vessel. If the weather reports do not look good for the day, reconsider going out. And if you see fast-moving, dark clouds appearing when out on the water, get back in to shore as quickly as possible to avoid an accident. Water conditions can also increase the chances of an accident if the waves are high or the rip currents are strong.
Follow Boating and Navigation Rules
Finally, following the boating and navigation rules minimizes the chances of being involved in an accident on the water. Just like the rules of the road for cars, trucks, and motorcycles there are rules for safe boating, as well. Do not speed or create wakes in “no wake” zones, keep a safe distance from other vessels, and follow the safety guidelines for boating in Florida. To learn more about what you can do to minimize the opportunities of a boating crash, talk to the experienced lawyers at our office today.
Call or Contact Our Office Today
Boating accidents happen more often than people realize, but there are steps that you can take to minimize the chances of being involved in an accident on the water. If you or a loved one has been hurt on a boat, talk to the knowledgeable and experienced personal injury attorneys at Earnhart Law today to schedule a free evaluation of your injury claims.
