Unfortunately, boating accident fatalities are common. The American Boating Association reports that in 2020, 767 people died as a result of a boating accident. This amounts to roughly 6.5 deaths per 100,000 registered boats.

It’s unclear if this figure includes personal watercraft. Below, we discuss factors that increase the risk of boating fatalities and how to get assistance from an experienced lawyer in the event that you were injured on a boat or lost a family member to a boating accident.

Common Causes of Boating Accidents

The United States Coast Guard reports that in 2020, 79% of all boating accident fatalities were the result of drowning. The overwhelming majority – 86% – of the individuals who died were not wearing life jackets at the time they drowned. Whether or not someone is a good swimmer has little to no influence on reducing the risk of a drowning fatality on the water, so even people who are adept at swimming should wear a life jacket. we’ll discuss the most common causes of boating accidents and how you can avoid them.

• Operator Inexperience
  One of the most common causes of boating accidents is operator inexperience. Many boaters are unfamiliar with the rules of the water, how to operate their boats safely, or how to respond in emergency situations. To avoid this, it’s important to take a boating safety course and become familiar with the rules and regulations that apply to your area.
• Excessive Speed
  Another common cause of boating accidents is excessive speed. Boats can create large wakes that can upset other boats, cause damage to shorelines, and increase the risk of accidents. Always operate your boat at a safe and reasonable speed, and be mindful of other boats, swimmers, and obstacles in the water.
• Alcohol and Drug Use
  Alcohol and drug use are also major contributors to boating accidents. Alcohol impairs judgment, coordination, and reaction time, making it dangerous to operate a boat. In many states, it’s illegal to operate a boat while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, and the penalties can be severe. Always operate your boat sober and avoid alcohol and drugs while on the water.
• Inadequate Safety Equipment
  Inadequate safety equipment is another common cause of boating accidents. All boats should be equipped with life jackets, fire extinguishers, and other safety equipment as required by law. Before setting out on the water, make sure that all of your safety equipment is in good condition and readily accessible.
• Mechanical Failure
  Mechanical failure is also a common cause of boating accidents. Regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent these accidents. Make sure to have your boat inspected by a qualified mechanic before each boating season, and always follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule.
• Weather and Water Conditions
  Weather and water conditions can also contribute to boating accidents. Boaters should always be aware of changing weather conditions, and should avoid boating in rough or stormy weather. In addition, always be mindful of the water conditions, including the depth of the water and the presence of any underwater hazards.

Most Common Contributors to Death vs. Injury

Many boat accidents are survivable and lead only to injuries, although the damage may be catastrophic. However, there are some common factors in fatal boat accidents that have been found to significantly increase the risk that you or someone on the boat will die in the event of a collision or other incident.

• Nearly 25% of fatal boating accidents involved alcohol as a primary influential factor. This includes people who drowned as a result of being unable to swim while intoxicated as well as drunk drivers who operate their vessels under the influence.
• The chances of death are much higher in a boating accident if one or more people on the vessel are not wearing their life jackets. The most important safety step you can take out on the water is putting on your life jacket before you go.

How a Georgia Boating Accident Lawyer Can Help You

If you lost a loved one in a boating accident or you were the one who was injured, it’s important to obtain legal guidance as soon as possible to protect your right to pursue fair compensation and justice for your loved one’s death or your injuries. Contact The Law Offices of Ronald F. Chalker & Associates today to book a consultation with an Atlanta boating accident attorney by calling (678) 319-9991 or toll free at (800) 393-8595.