Spending the day on a boat is usually a fun and relaxing experience. Boating is one of the most popular activities in Texas, with more than half a million registered boats in the state, according to the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department. With so many boats on our lakes and rivers, it is no wonder that boating accidents can occur. Unfortunately, when a boating accident happens, it may result in serious injuries or fatalities.
Negligence in Boating Accidents
Boat operators must follow local, state, and federal laws that apply. The TPWD works in coordination with the U.S. Coast Guard to enforce the law and to provide search and rescue missions. The law enforcement agency is often called the “Texas Navy.” Just as with vehicle accidents, boating accidents are often caused by negligence. A negligent act is one that the operator knew or should have known, was unsafe and could cause harm or injury to another.
Some of the most common causes of boating accidents include inexperience, inattention, reckless operation, speeding, operating while impaired, equipment failure, and weather. About half of reported boating accidents were caused by boating while intoxicated (BWI). Many people enjoy drinking alcoholic beverages while they are on their boat. The operator of the boat should never be impaired due to alcohol or drugs. An irresponsible boater may be held responsible for an accident and any damages and injuries. The boat owner or operator must provide a safe vessel, including safety vests for all passengers. The failure to do so could be considered a negligent act.
Reporting Boating Accidents
All vessels on the waterways are required to obey the law, including motorboats, pontoon boats, jet skis, kayaks, pontoons, sailboats, and others. If you have an accident in a boat, you must report the incident anytime there was property damage of more than $2,000, injuries, or fatalities, when a passenger goes missing, and when a boat is destroyed. Some of the most common types of accidents involve a collision between two boats, between a boat and a fixed object, a collision with a floating object or swimmer, running aground, a fire or explosion, capsizing, or someone falling overboard. Most boating accidents involve some level of negligence.
It is essential to seek medical attention as soon as possible after a boating accident. Some injuries are severe and life-threatening, such as head and back trauma.
If you have been injured, follow your doctor’s orders and keep records of your medical treatments and bills.
Metro Doctors Group assists people who have sustained injuries in an automobile accident or at work. Our doctors treat all kinds of injuries, but specialize in musculoskeletal injuries.
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Thank you to Baumgartner Attorneys for the info!