The Most Common Injuries in a Boating Accident
With many lakes, rivers, and other waterways in the Nashville area, boating is one of this area’s favorite pastimes and has been growing in popularity over the last few years. Unfortunately, with an increase in boating comes with it an increase in boating accidents. At Mitch Grissim & Associates, our experienced boating accident attorneys have represented many victims and their loved ones, zealously advocating for their right to compensation. If you or someone you know has been injured in a boating accident around Nashville, call or contact our office today to schedule a free consultation.
Drowning
One of the most common injuries caused by boating accidents is drowning, which comes as no surprise to many people considering that boating occurs on the water. Drowning occurs far more often than most people realize, and it happens to many victims that know how to swim. A serious accident can render a victim unconscious in the water, trapped under debris, or causes some other issue that renders them unable to swim up for air. Sadly, many deaths and lifelong incapacitation are caused by drowning every year.
Broken Bones
Broken bones are a common boating accident injuries that are often overlooked. Boating accident injuries that result in broken bones can range from minor fractures to more serious injuries. Boaters should be aware of the potential for common boating accident injuries that could lead to broken bones. Broken bones can be caused by a variety of common boating accident injuries, including slips and falls, collisions with other vessels, and being thrown out of the boat. Boaters should take the necessary precautions to prevent broken bones by wearing an appropriate life jacket, avoiding excessive speed, and avoiding boating while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
Traumatic Brain Injuries
Traumatic brain injuries are common injuries in serious boating accidents. During a collision accident, the force of impact on a victim’s head can lead to traumatic brain injuries. However, this type of injury can also be caused by a lack of oxygen to the brain if the victim is underwater for a significant amount of time or exposed to substantial amounts of carbon dioxide. This boating accident injury can often result in long-term pain and suffering.
Spinal Cord Injuries
Another common injury in boating accident cases is a spinal cord injury. A spinal cord injury typically happens in one of two ways. First, a spinal cord injury can occur as a result of an impact and the victim’s spine suffering a significant injury in a collision. Second, this type of injury can be caused by compression when a boat is forcefully bouncing up and down in the waves or wake of another boat. Both types of spinal cord injuries can lead to lasting damage to the victim.
Electrocution
Electrocution is also a common injury in boating accidents because of the electrical systems and appliances on vessels that require an electric charge. When a boating accident occurs, the electrical components can come into contact with the water and electrocute those in the vicinity, causing electrical burns and heart attacks among other injuries.
Lacerations and Amputation
Finally, boating accidents can cause serious lacerations and amputation injuries for victims. These types of injuries occur most often when the boating accident involves the propeller blades striking a person during the incident. If the propeller blades are moving, they can cause deep lacerations or even a traumatic amputation of a body part.
Talk to Our Office Now
If you would like to speak with an experienced Nashville boat accident attorney about your case, call the office or contact us today at Mitch Grissim & Associates today to schedule a free consultation of your case.
