There’s no better way to enjoy the warm summer weather than by cruising through the water on a boat. Unfortunately, many boating trips turn into tragedies when someone is seriously injured in a boating accident. If you plan on heading out on the water, make sure you follow these tips to avoid boating accidents:
Don’t overload the boat.
Don’t bring too much cargo or invite too many passengers onto your boat if you want to ensure a safe trip. Too much weight on board can increase the risk of capsizing, so be sure to check the boat’s official capacity before leaving shore.
Look at the weather forecast.
Boating accidents often occur because of bad weather, but these accidents can easily be avoided by looking at the weather forecast before you begin your trip. There are several warnings that you should be aware of, including small craft warnings, gale warnings, and storm warnings. These warnings will tell boat operators what to expect from the weather, so pay close attention to them to avoid getting stuck in high, dangerous winds.
“Know before you go.”
The American Boating Association recommends that boating operators always follow the motto of “know before you go.” Part of this is knowing what to do in the event of an emergency. Boat operators should check that all safety equipment on board is functioning properly and that they have enough life jackets for everyone on board. You will have to think quickly in the event of an emergency, so it’s important to plan what you will do if disaster strikes.
Avoid alcohol.
Drinking and boating do not mix. Studies have shown that people who are drinking alcohol while operating a boat are two times more likely to be involved in a boating accident. If you are the boat operator, it’s imperative that you avoid alcohol to protect yourself and others.
Two operators are better than one.
It’s recommended that you always have someone else on board who can operate the boat in the event that you are unable to do so. For instance, if you become ill while boating, this person can step in and bring the boat back to shore. This person should be familiar with safety procedures, how to operate a boat, and what to do in the event of an emergency.
Even if you follow all of these tips, it’s possible that you could still end up in a boating accident. If you have been injured, contact the attorneys at Reisch Law Firm. Our team will immediately begin working to help you recover the compensation that you deserve. Schedule a free consultation today by calling 303-291-0555 or filling out this online form.
