What are the Most Common Causes of Boating Accidents?
The area around Nashville is full of lakes, rivers, and other waterways for people to enjoy. Center Hill, Dale Hollow, Percy Priest, and Old Hickory are just a few of the places for residents and tourists alike to get out on the water. With more people boating in Tennessee, the risk of boating accidents also increases. The injuries caused by boating accidents can be devastating for victims, so it is important to understand what causes these accidents to begin with. At Mitch Grissim & Associates, our boating accident attorneys are here to help. As a licensed U.S. Coast Guard Captain, Mitch Grissim is experienced in boat safety and operation. If you or a loved one was injured in a boating accident in the Nashville area, call or contact our office today to schedule a free consultation.
What Causes Boating Accidents?
According to the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency, in 2018 there were over 240,000 registered boating vessels in the state. The most common type of boat involved in an accident was an open motorboat, and the most common type of accident was a collision with a vessel. There are many causes of a boating accident in Tennessee, but the following reasons lead to more accidents than others.
Improper Lookout
One of the most common causes of boating accidents was an improper lookout. Neither the boat operator or a designated lookout saw whatever object, condition, or hazard causes the accident. This can be due to laziness, distraction, or simply negligence. An improper lookout means that the boat can strike anything in the water and cause an accident without the opportunity to mitigate or avoid the crash. Accidents caused by improper lookout often result in very serious injuries.
Careless or Reckless Operation
Careless or reckless operation of the boating vessel also causes a number of accidents every year. This can be caused by an unlicensed driver operating the boat at the time of the accident, or a licensed driver who is simply acting recklessly because they think it is funny or fun to operate the boat carelessly. The careless or reckless operation of a boat often leads to accidents with other boats or people in the water, causing significant damages.
Alcohol Impairment
Alcohol impairment also causes many accidents on boats. Especially in the summer, when the temperature heats up, and on weekends when the operator and passengers of boats do not need to go to work, alcohol is commonplace on boats. However, when the operator of a vessel is drinking it causes a delayed response and impaired cognitive function, which can lead to an accident on the water just as easily as it can lead to an accident behind the wheel of a car.
Poor Visibility
Poor Visibility is another common cause of boating accidents. Poor visibility can be caused by fog, rain, snow, or any other type of inclement weather. This can make it difficult for boat operators to see the surroundings and can increase the chances of a boating accident. It is important for boat operators to always be aware of their surroundings, especially in poor visibility conditions.
Equipment Failure
Equipment Failure is another common cause of boating accidents. Equipment failure on a boat can lead to boat crashes, boating deaths, and serious injury. Faulty equipment can also cause boat operators to become stranded, resulting in boat aground cases. It is important for boat operators to make sure that all equipment is properly maintained and checked regularly in order to avoid boat crashes and boating deaths.
It is important for boat operators to always boat safely and take all necessary safety precautions in order to avoid boat accidents. Boat operators should always wear the proper safety equipment when operating a boat, such as a life jacket. Additionally, boat operators should check the weather forecast and all safety equipment before leaving shore. Taking these safety measures can help to reduce the chances of a boating accident.
If you have been involved in a boating accident, it is important to seek legal counsel. An experienced law firm can help to determine the cause of boating accidents and can help to ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve. Boating accidents can be devastating and can result in serious injury or even death, so it is important to seek legal counsel in order to ensure that you are properly compensated.
Inexperienced Boaters
Inexperienced Boaters are one of the most common causes of boating accidents. According to the United States Coast Guard, boating accidents are the leading cause of fatal boating accidents in the United States. Recreational boating accidents are the most common type of boat accident, accounting for about 70% of all boating accidents. Poor decisions made by boat operators are often the main factor in such boating accidents.
Inexperienced boaters can often make poor decisions when operating a boat, such as not paying attention to the environment or their surroundings. This can lead to dangerous situations, resulting in boating accidents. Poorly maintained boats can also be a factor in boating accidents. It is important for boat operators to make sure that their boat is in good working condition in order to avoid any potential boating accidents.
Inexperienced boaters should always take the time to educate themselves on the proper boating safety procedures and regulations. It is also important for boat operators to take the necessary precautions while operating a boat. Boating accidents can easily be avoided if boat operators take the time to educate themselves and practice safe boating. Boating accidents can be fatal and it is important for boat operators to be aware of the risks and take all necessary safety precautions in order to avoid boating accidents. Operator inattention plays a key factor in most boating accidents.
Inclement Weather
Inclement weather is a common cause of boating accidents. Weather conditions can change quickly and without warning, making it difficult for boat operators to stay safe. Boat operators should always be aware of the weather conditions and pay attention to any early warning signs that indicate a change in the weather. Weather reports can be a great resource for boat operators and can help them to stay informed of the current weather conditions.
It is important for boat operators to take the necessary precautions while operating a boat in inclement weather. Boat operators should always wear the proper safety equipment, such as a life jacket, and should pay attention to the local weather reports and forecasts. Boat operators should also be aware of the potential for hazardous waters and should be prepared to return to shore if necessary.
Boating accidents can have devastating consequences and can result in serious injury or even death. Boat crashes and property damage can also be caused by inclement weather. It is important for boat operators to boat safely and take necessary safety precautions in order to avoid boating accidents. Boat operators should always check the weather report before leaving shore and should be prepared to return to shore if the weather conditions become hazardous.
If you have been involved in a boating accident, it is important to seek legal counsel. An experienced law firm can help to determine the cause of the boating accident and can help to ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve. Boating accidents can be devastating and can result in boating deaths, so it is important to seek legal counsel in order to ensure that you are properly compensated.
Let Us Help You Today
If you or someone you know has been injured in a boating accident, you deserve to be compensated for your injuries. Call the office or contact us today at Mitch Grissim & Associates to schedule an evaluation of your claims with one of our experienced Nashville personal injury lawyers.
