Boating accidents can occur in a variety of situations ranging from cruise line vessels to small boats and personal watercraft in local rivers and lakes. In 2011, the Coast Guard counted 4,588 accidents nationwide that resulted in 758 deaths and 3,081 injuries. Seventy percent of the fatal accident victims drowned, and 84 percent were not wearing life jackets.
The Coast Guard and other state agencies outline rules for safe boating. And, just as it is with car crashes, when a boating accident occurs, it is considered a crime if the boat operator fails to remain on the scene, render aid, and report the boating accident to an appropriate law enforcement agency in a timely manner.
The top five contributing factors in boating accidents are:
- Boat driver inattention
- Improper lookout
- Inexperienced boat drivers
- Excessive speed
- Machinery failure
When you're injured as a result of someone else's irresponsibility, he or she can be held accountable for your losses and compensation for your injury.
Call us today at 816-842-7100 to speak with an attorney. Or you can click here to email us and schedule your free consultation.
We will treat your case with the utmost personal respect and confidence. Remember, your initial consultation is free, and we don’t get paid unless you win..
