4 Common Causes of Boating Accidents and How to Avoid Them

National Safe Boating Week — May 17-23 this year — heralds the start of summer and serves as an important reminder of the steps we can all take to stay safe while enjoying time on the water. Although the Coast Guard in 2023 reported an 11.5 percent decrease in boating fatalities, the number of boating accidents overall rose by nearly 5 percent that year. The increase highlights the ongoing need for awareness, preparation, and caution. Here are four common causes of boating accidents and steps you can take to prevent them.

 

Alcohol Use

Alcohol use impairs reaction times, judgment, and coordination, and is the leading factor in boating accidents. The Coast Guard attributes 17 percent of boating fatalities to alcohol use. The obvious path of prevention here is to refrain from consuming alcohol while on a boat. This especially applies to the boat operator (driving a boat while intoxicated still counts as DUI), but it’s also smart to avoid alcohol in general while on watercraft, as it could affect your balance and judgment while on board. If you plan to indulge, designate a sober driver, just as you would a designated driver on land.

 

Operator Inattention

Boating requires focus at all times. Accidents often happen when operators become distracted, whether by passengers, devices, or simply the activities or scenery around them. To remain safe, stay focused on operating the vessel and monitor your surroundings. Designate another individual onboard to handle secondary tasks, such as assisting passengers or managing navigation aids.

 

Excessive Speed

Speeding on the water is a frequent contributor to boating accidents. High speeds make it harder to react to hazards like sudden obstacles, changes in water conditions, or other vessels, and boats can’t stop or change direction quickly the way cars can. Always operate your boat at a safe and manageable speed that aligns with water conditions, weather, and traffic. Pay close attention to speed limits and no-wake zones.

 

Lack of Proper Safety Equipment

Failing to carry essential safety gear like life jackets, fire extinguishers, and visual distress signals can turn minor mishaps into serious emergencies. The Coast Guard says that 75 percent of boating fatalities occurred from drowning in 2023, and 87 percent of those victims weren’t wearing life jackets. To reduce these risks, conduct a safety equipment check before every trip. Ensure all passengers have access to U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets, and make sure they fit properly.

 

Protect Yourself After a Boating Accident

Taking sensible precautions will reduce the risk of an accident, but they can’t prevent other people from acting carelessly. If you or a loved one has been injured in a boating accident caused by someone else’s negligence, our personal injury attorneys are here to help. Contact us to discuss your case and explore your options for obtaining fair compensation.