Boating and Watercraft Injuries Can Be Catastrophic
Boating and watercraft activities offer a fantastic way to enjoy the outdoors and bond with loved ones during warmer months. It’s a popular pastime, whether you’re indulging in a calm river cruise, motorboat fishing, or jet ski racing. However, it’s important to be aware of the risks associated with these activities.
Unfortunately, reports from the Coast Guard and other bodies reveal a concerning number of boating and watercraft injuries each year. In 2020 alone, over 4,000 recreational boating accidents resulted in 658 fatalities and 2,629 injuries. Jet skis account for 24% of all watercraft accidents, making them a leading cause of injury. These numbers highlight the importance of taking precautions and using personal watercraft responsibly.
Various injuries can occur from boating and watercraft accidents. Drowning is the most common, accounting for approximately 79% of fatalities, with 84% of victims not wearing life jackets. Another prevalent injury is traumatic brain injury (TBI), which can result from a blow or impact to the head, causing significant brain damage.
Taking Action After an Accident
Firstly, assess the situation. If there are any injuries, seek immediate medical attention. Even if there are no visible injuries, it is best to call for assistance by contacting the Coast Guard or police or dialing 911.
Secondly, make sure to gather as much information as possible about the accident. Take pictures and collect the names and contact information of everyone who was on board, along with their statements of what happened. Don’t forget to note the time, date, location, and weather conditions at the time of the accident.
Next, report the accident to the appropriate state agency responsible for investigating and handling boating accidents. In most cases, this responsibility lies with the state’s natural resources agency, while the Coast Guard is responsible for certain types of accidents.
If your watercraft is damaged, take it to a reputable repair shop and obtain a written estimate of the repair costs. Notify your insurance company of the accident if your watercraft is insured.
Finally, consulting with a lawyer experienced in watercraft accidents is critical. A qualified lawyer can guide you through the claims process, explain your legal options, and help ensure you receive proper compensation for any physical injuries, emotional trauma, lost wages, or boat repairs caused by the accident.
The body of water that the accident happened in also makes a difference. Litigation can happen in State or Federal level courts.
Insurance Coverage: Get Your Boat On the Water with Confidence.
Navigating waterways and participating in water sports come with inherent risks. Accidents on the water are not uncommon, which is why it is crucial to be adequately prepared with the right insurance coverage.
Ohio Boat Insurance Requirements
– Boat owners in Ohio must have a minimum amount of liability coverage.
– Liability coverage protects owners in case they cause bodily injury or property damage to others while operating their boat.
– The minimum liability coverage required is $25,000 for bodily injury per person and $50,000 for bodily injury per occurrence.
– It is recommended that boat owners also purchase comprehensive and collision insurance for damage to their own vessel.
Michigan Boat Insurance Requirements
– All boat owners in Michigan are required by law to have a minimum amount of liability insurance coverage.
– Liability insurance covers damages caused to other boaters, passengers, or property.
– The minimum liability limits in Michigan are $100,000 per person, $300,000 per occurrence for bodily injury, and $50,000 for property damage.
– Personal Watercraft (PWC) like Jet Skis also require insurance with similar liability limits.
Keep Your Adventures on the Water Safe and Relaxing with These Essential Tips!
To ensure a safe experience, it’s essential to understand and address the factors that contribute to watercraft accidents. These may include operating vessels under the influence, speeding, and distractions. Such incidents can lead to significant damage to property and life-threatening injuries. Accidents can happen anytime and anywhere, with incidents reported in open water, restricted waterways, inland waters, and other or unspecified locations.
To protect yourself from boating and watercraft accidents, it’s important to follow safety measures. Here are five tips to help you prepare for boating season:
1. Avoid excessive alcohol use.
3. Follow these Five Safety Tips
Remember that a peaceful day on the water can turn chaotic in seconds if you don’t follow proper safety guidelines. Before planning your next boating adventure, take the time to ensure that your boat is in excellent condition and equipped with essential safety gear. Don’t hesitate to take boating safety courses or seek additional information on precautionary measures. Always stay alert and aware of your surroundings, and keep emergency gear and a necessary safety kit on hand to ensure a safe experience.
Fighting for Your Rights
Boating and watercraft accidents can quickly diminish excitement and joy, causing physical and emotional distress. Do not endure the suffering while insurance companies attempt to exploit you during your recovery period. Contact one of our qualified boating accident attorneys to safeguard your rights and guide you through the legal system. By doing so, you will secure the compensation you need and deserve.
An experienced boating accident attorney is crucial to fighting for your rights. You deserve compensation and justice for any negligence that has caused you harm. Your attorney can assist you in obtaining appropriate compensation for medical expenses, lost income, physical and emotional pain, and other losses you have suffered. At Gallon, Takacs & Boissoneault, we are committed to ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve for your pain and suffering.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a boating or personal watercraft accident, reach out to us for a Free Consultation. Our experienced Personal Injury attorneys can help you navigate the complicated waters of boating accidents and get the compensation you deserve to recover from your injuries.
