Preventing Boat Explosions

In the Delray Beach area, almost everyone either owns or knows someone who owns a boat. Boating is a way of life in Florida for recreation, for work, and more. One real danger of boat ownership is an explosion, which is possible for any type of watercraft that has a gasoline engine. Boat explosions can cause serious injuries or worse, and at Earnhart Law our Delray Beach personal injury lawyers are here to help you if you have been injured in this type of accident. To learn more about your legal options, call or contact our office today to schedule a free consultation.

Boat Explosion Accidents

According to the United States Coastguard, boat explosions are more common than most people think. There are reports of a couple of hundred boat explosions every year that lead to devastating injuries and deaths. In 2018, there were 256 boat explosions reported with multiple injuries and deaths across the United States.

Certain types of vessels are more likely to explode than others. Specifically, vessels with inboard gasoline engines have a higher likelihood of exploding because of the increased chances of fuel getting trapped in the bilge or within the engine compartment. This can ultimately lead to a build up of gasoline vapors, which can cause an explosion with even the smallest spark. Common vessels that contain an inboard gasoline engine include cabin cruisers, watersport boats, and ski boats.

Explosions can also happen on vessels with outboard gasoline engines, but the likelihood of an explosion is much lower. This is because an outboard motor is more likely to start smoking before an explosion occurs, giving the vessel operator or passengers the chance to turn it off and avert an accident. Vessels commonly equipped with outboard motors include speedboats, yachts, and pontoons.

Common Causes of Boat Explosions

There are many reasons why a boat can explode when it contains an inboard gasoline engine. Many explosions happen right after refueling a vessel, with hazards that include lingering fumes, leaking hoses, dislodged hoses, improper closing of valves or lines, and basic operator negligence. Boat operators are supposed to be licensed, and part of the licensing education is learning about fueling and how to identify when there are fumes in the air. If an operator disregards these basic signs and an explosion occurs, they may be liable for any injuries that result. If the operator is employed by a larger boating company, that company may also be liable for the operator’s negligence. If you would like to learn more about who may be responsible for an accident after a boat explosion, talk to our office today.

Talk to Earnhart Law Now

Boat explosions do not happen often, but when they do occur the results can be catastrophic for victims. If you or a loved one has been injured in a boat explosion in the Delray Beach area, call or contact Earnhart Law today to schedule a free consultation with one of our experienced personal injury attorneys now.

Resource:

uscgboating.org/recreational-boaters/accident-reporting.php