As the summer months approach and the weather heats up, the water calls our names. For many, that means spending our weekends hanging out at the neighborhood pool, hosting cookouts by our backyard ponds, or vacationing at a family friend’s lake house. For others, summertime is the perfect opportunity for high-octane watersports: boating, tubing, and even jet-skiing!
Located near the beautiful Great Lakes, Ohioans and Michiganders know all about the excitement this time of year brings. These seasonal outdoor activities can lead to lifelong memories and offer fun for the entire family, but with those memories comes the risk of serious accidents. Ohio consistently reports over 100 boating accidents yearly, so those who want to have fun this summer must do so safely and smartly.
How Watercraft Accidents Happen
Boating, tubing, and jet-ski accidents can occur in a variety of ways, but typically, these accidents are caused by everyday situations:
Environmental circumstances (weather, congested waters, locks)
Boats capsizing, sinking, or flooding
Operating your vessel (high speeds, improper lookout)
Equipment failure (mechanical failure, fire)
Falling on or off the boat
Engaging in water-bound activities can be inherently dangerous, fueled by the adrenaline rush that many of us crave. However, it is crucial to prioritize safety and take precautions to avoid injuries. Those who enjoy outdoor sports must understand that neglecting safety equipment and gear can have severe consequences, even in seemingly minor accidents. Although Ohio law exempts some boaters from wearing a life jacket, disregarding this safety measure can lead to significant repercussions. It is essential to handle claims carefully and acknowledge the impact of any harm experienced by you or your loved ones. For the sake of safety, please consider wearing a life jacket while on the water.
Another risky behavior to avoid is engaging in watersports while under the influence. It is straightforward: consuming alcohol and operating a watercraft is extremely unsafe. When exposed to the hot sun all day, the effects of alcohol can escalate quickly, often without notice. Similar to driving a motor vehicle under the influence, operating a jet-ski while intoxicated poses a grave danger to yourself and others. Be wise and refrain from taking any unnecessary risks this summer. Remember, you want to enjoy the water in the years to come, so prioritize safety this summer as much as possible.
So, you’ve experienced a Watercraft Accident…
Gathering information from all parties involved is vital if you’ve been in a watercraft accident (e.g., boating, jet-skis, tubing). Certain bodies of water are governed by federal and state laws that can affect legal rights and responsibilities. Any incident resulting in physical injury, property damage exceeding $2,000, or death must be reported to the Department of Natural Resources within 48 hours. They will assist in creating a report similar to police reports for car accidents, which will be valuable if you decide to pursue an injury claim.
After a water accident, prioritize the medical care of all injured parties. Injuries may not be immediately apparent, so getting them assessed promptly is crucial. Under certain circumstances, Ohio law allows injured parties to seek compensation. At Gallon, Takacs, & Boissoneault, our experienced attorneys have assisted individuals with various physical injuries.
- Fractured and broken bones,
- Traumatic brain injuries,
- Bruising,
- Concussions;
- Head, neck, and back injuries; and
- Sprains and muscle strains.
When it comes to personal injury claims, particularly watercraft accidents, proving negligence is crucial. Our experienced watercraft accident attorneys will attentively listen to your story and meticulously analyze your situation to establish fault. We are here to assist you in collecting proper compensation, whether inside or outside the court. Remember, the more documentation you and your loved ones possess regarding the harm suffered, the stronger your case becomes.
Providing evidence of negligence is often a crucial factor when it comes to personal injury claims, particularly watercraft accidents. Our experienced watercraft accident attorneys are here to lend an ear to your story and diligently assess your situation to determine liability. Whether it’s through negotiations or litigation, we are dedicated to assisting you in obtaining the compensation you deserve. Having thorough documentation of any harm incurred can greatly strengthen your case.
If you have been involved in a watercraft accident and require our assistance, please don’t hesitate to contact us via phone at 419-843-6663 or fill out our online contact form.
For the best summer, remember to stay safe and smart.
Have fun out on the water!
Jeff joined GT&B in 2008 as a law clerk. After graduation, he worked in election law. In 2011, he returned to GT&B as an Associate, focusing on personal injury cases like auto accidents, premises liability, general negligence, wrongful death, and dog bites. Now a Senior Associate in the Personal Injury department, he is passionate about protecting his clients who have suffered injuries through no fault of their own and ensuring they receive the justice and compensation they deserve.
