9 Boating Accident Dangers and You: How to Be Safe!

Most people do not think boating is dangerous compared to driving in a car. But as New Orleans, LA attorneys, we at the Mike Brandner Law see the scary results of a lot of boating accidents. We do everything in our power to help clients after a boating accident, but it is far better to avoid these incidents altogether. Stay safe on the water by being aware of these dangers and following these boating tips.

9 Boating Accident Dangers

One of the best ways to avoid boating injuries is to be aware of the dangers. Here are 9 you need to know.

1. Dams

Dams have hidden underwater components and currents that an inexperienced boater may not expect. In worst-case scenarios, the dam has not been maintained. This can cause injury when a boat strikes something hidden, or gets caught up in a bad current.

2. Objects Under the Water

Unfortunately, not everyone respects nature the way they should. Sometimes, landowners around the lake or others who drive in dump waste, trash, and sometimes even large objects to the bottom of a lake. If these items do not settle at the very bottom, a boat could strike them and cause injury.

3. Cold Water

This boating accident injury happens if you are thrown from a boat during an accident. If the water is cold enough and the air warm enough, this can actually put your body into shock. At the very least, it can cause you to involuntarily gasp under the water, which can cause choking and possible drowning.

4. Changing Weather

Many people think of changing, dangerous weather when they think of boating accidents. Before you head out on the water, check the forecast. If a storm suddenly pops up unexpectedly, ensure that everyone has their life jacket on, and try to make it back to shore.

5. Sun Stroke

Not many people realize just how warm you get while on a boat. Especially in the summer, take care to have plenty of water with you if you intend on hanging out on deck for awhile. It doesn’t hurt to add a hat or a white T-shirt or swimsuit coverup. The white color will reflect the sun’s rays, keeping your body temperature down.

6. Current

Again, dangerous currents play a role in many boat accidents. Never underestimate a current you may be headed into. This is especially true of unpowered boats, where the boater has only their own strength to get them out of a sticky situation.

7. Carbon Monoxide

Copious amounts of carbon monoxide can be deadly in any situation. Be especially careful around your boat, as many people do not associate carbon monoxide with boating accidents. Any vessel with poor ventilation or closed up areas may be prone to collecting this dangerous gas.

8. Electrical Shock

When you mix machinery, electricity, and water, there is always a chance of electric shock. Sometimes, electric shock can occur because of negligence on the part of a marina. If their electrical systems are underwater and not maintained, serious injury can occur. If this happens to you, call your New Orleans, LA attorneys today.

9. Rules of the Water

Finally, before you get behind the wheel of any vehicle, you need to know the rules of the road. This is no different for boating. Sometimes, injuries and even death happen simply because someone was going too fast in the wrong direction or didn’t understand a situation. Use defensive driving skills on the water, and keep yourself and your family safe.

How to Avoid Boat Accidents

Some dangers are hard to avoid while boating, but you can greatly reduce your risk by following six simple tips:

1. Do not drink if you are operating the boat. Having a drink on the water can be extremely pleasant, but it is just as important to have a designated driver in a boat as it is in a car.
2. Learn about your boat, and give it a thorough check before you take it out onto the water.
3. Have a life jacket for everyone on board, and make sure the vests fit. This is still important even if you are a strong swimmer.
4. Have a fire extinguisher on board. Better safe than sorry.
5. Learn about boating safety by doing your research or taking a class.
6. Watch the weather. Do not risk going out in your boat when a storm is coming. Boating in the rain is less fun and notably less safe.

We hope you and your family have a great time on the water. However, in case the worst happens, reach out to New Orleans, LA attorneys at Mike Brandner Law to start your personal injury case.

Who Is Responsible in a Boat Accident?

In most but not all cases, the person driving the boat is responsible for an accident. There may be other circumstances that can change the person that responsibility falls on, like if a passenger or onlooker does something to jeopardize the safety of the boat.

The boat manufacturer or service company may also be responsible if equipment failure causes the accident. If you are having a hard time determining who is responsible for a boating accident, reach out to knowledgeable New Orleans, LA attorneys for guidance.

New Orleans, LA Attorneys

If you have suffered injuries, or had to deal with property damage because of a boat accident, New Orleans, LA attorneys may be able to help you receive a settlement. You can receive money to cover medical bills, pain and suffering, lost wages, and damaged property. The process starts by building a case to prove the responsible party’s liability, and determining for how much of the damage that party should be accountable.

At Mike Brandner Law, our skilled personal injury lawyers are prepared to help you if you have been involved in a boating accident. You can reach us 24/7 by phone, LiveChat, and by submitting an online web form. 

We do not ask for payments unless we win your case, because we do not want our clients to deal with any more risk after a boating accident. Contact us today for your risk-free consultation. As experienced New Orleans, LA attorneys, we are confident in our ability to get you the settlement you deserve!