Boating is a popular pastime for millions of Americans. The United States has rivers and lakes from sea to shining sea to accommodate all those who like boating. This boating hobby requires a substantial investment in money and time. Though some people rent boats, others prefer to own and store their boats and equipment. Boating can be an exciting and safe sport for families to enjoy together. But, each year boating s for over 5,000 accidents and causes more than $62 million in losses for victims. For this reason, it is important to take boat safety measures and have a good insurance policy for protection.
There Are Insurance Policies to Cover Boating
Since everyone thinks accidents happen to other people, insurance may not seem important. But, someone suffers those 5,000 boating accidents each year. Even the safest boating enthusiast can encounter another boater who does something dangerous or makes a serious mistake. It is well worth the money to add boating insurance to other policies just in case. Having a boating insurance policy is a good practice.
But, if there is a boating accident and your insurance carrier or the other party’s insurance carrier does not seem willing to cover the accident losses fairly, the next step is to a law firm that handles losses from boat accidents.
Boaters in western states such as Wyoming, Idaho, and Utah can an idaho personal injury lawyer. A law firm can help boating accident victims receive fair compensation to get their lives back on track.
Here Are 10 Boating Accident Statistics to Consider
When people ask why boating accidents happen, the experts will cite statistics showing the causes and results of boating accidents. Here are 10 of the most common ones:
1. In America, over 5,000 accidents involving boats happen every year ing for over $62 million in accident damages.
2. Boating fatalities increased during COVID-19 but had decreased after the ing of the Safe Boating Act of 1971. The boating accident death rate is 5.5 deaths for every 100,000 recreational boats.
3. The leading cause of boating accidents continues to be the use of alcohol. This ed for 16% or 86 deaths during 2021. The use of other mind-altering drugs is also dangerous.
4. The importance of wearing life jackets is shown by the fact that 86% of drowning victims were not wearing safety jackets.
5. An interesting statistic is that most boating accidents happen in calm waters.
6. 77% of boating accidents were caused by people who did not get safety education for boating. The operator of the boat being inexperienced is another cause of accidents.
7. Speeding increases the chances of boating accidents.
8. The operator of the boat not paying enough attention or being distracted can cause boating accidents. Not having a specified person looking out for obstacles and hazards is another cause of accidents.
9. When boat equipment is inadequate, damaged, or missing, it can cause accidents.
10. Going out on waterways in dangerous weather or bad boating conditions can lead to accidents.
Boating Enthusiasts Can Do Things To Avoid Accidents
Experts advise boaters to take several steps before they even leave the dock to prevent boating accidents and emergencies. Every boater should seek instruction on the safe operation of their new boat. Taking boating safety classes is very important. Then, make sure the boat and all the needed equipment are in good condition. Every boater should be prepared for every outing by planning the route, having a good navigation system, having a trip safety checklist, and educating all the engers on boating safety and boat operation and amenities.
