When you take a look at the US Coast Guard Recreational Boating statistics, you’ll realize that boating accidents are more common than they seem.
Nobody expects to become a victim on the water. But then, accidents can happen anywhere. If you’re a frequent tourer of water bodies, you must educate yourself on the common causes of boat accidents.
In this article, we’ll give a detailed account of the most common causes of boat accidents. Knowing each of them is the first step to ensuring that you’re always out of harm’s way.
Distracted Driver
When the boat driver is not fully concentrating on steering the ship, they put themselves as well as other boat occupants in danger.
Operator inattention is the number-one cause of boat accidents. The worst part is that, once you lose your hold and the boat capsizes, you have no guarantee of solid ground or the ability to breathe.
You’d also have to worry about the creatures swimming below your feet. If you do not want to endanger your life this way, resist the urge to give in to distractions while you drive the boat.
Inexperienced Driving
It takes more than a few days of practice to master the workings of a boat. Do not take charge of the driving unless you have been fully trained and certified to transport people on water bodies. The consequences can be quite catastrophic.
No Lookouts
Someone must be on the lookout for obstacles in or on the water. It’s not always possible for the driver to notice all the oncoming obstacles.
If possible, a random member of the crew should be given this responsibility. They would be in charge of spotting things that the driver may have missed.
Overspeeding
Overspeeding can be dangerous, whether on land or in water bodies. Its consequences on water bodies are quite dangerous. If your boat capsized and you went unconscious, without someone to save you quickly, you could lose your life.
While you drive on water, only go at the appropriate speed. By reducing your speed, you increase your reaction time and also decrease other risk factors.
Driving Under the Influence
Alcohol and drugs will have the same impact on you regardless of what mode of transport you’re using.
The rule is simple: If you drink, don’t drive.
If you plan to drink, get a designated member of the crew to stay sober for everyone’s sake.
Failure to Check the Weather
One of the worst mistakes you can make is to set out on a long trip (especially during the rainy season) without checking weather forecasts.
It’s never wise to assume the sun will remain shining. Let the experts confirm this for you first.
Malfunction
If boats are not duly maintained, you risk running into machinery failure during operation. It can be quite risky if your boat develops a fault in the middle of nowhere.
To curb the chances of this happening, conduct routine checks on all your boats. Before you take any of them for a spin, ensure they are in the best condition.
Troubled Waters
Sometimes, there would be sudden changes in the tide that would make operating the boat quite difficult. This is another reason why newbies shouldn’t drive boats without supervision from a more experienced driver.
When the waters get tough, it will take the skills of an experienced boat operator to smoothly navigate the boat and get everyone to safety.
Violation of Navigation Rules
Boat drivers have to abide by a specific set of boat navigation rules. Even if you know how to operate a boat but do not understand these rules, you risk running into other boats or even capsizing as a result.
Wrapping Up
It’s possible to enjoy a fun time on the boat without running into any mishaps.
This is only possible if the boat’s operator pays due attention to safety procedures.
If possible, there should be an extra crew member to take turns with them to ensure that everything is safe and functional. Victims of a boating accident should consider hiring an experienced boating accident lawyer.
They can help prove the seriousness of the accident and get the compensation they deserve.