Spring is upon us, and summer is just months away. That means more people will be heading to lakes and rivers for some fun in the water. Many people will enjoy their time outdoors and act responsibly, while some may wind up putting others in danger. Such is the nature of water vessel crashes.
Boating accidents can lead to catastrophic and even fatal injuries, which is why the Provo, UT lawyers of Flickinger Sutterfield & Boulton take these incidents so seriously.
Let’s take a moment to discuss reckless behaviors while operating a boat, and what legal actions should be considered.
The Dangers of Reckless Boating
Any type of motor vehicle can pose major dangers to others. When dealing with water craft of any kind, the dangers are much greater. Not only can water vessel crashes lead to collisions with other boats and water vessels, there is a chance the boat will also strike swimmers, floating objects, rocks, and dry land. These can all lead to catastrophic injuries and even death.
That is why anyone who operates a boat on a lake or any body of water must do so carefully, and with proper attention paid to all objects, individuals, and wildlife nearby.
Boating at High Speeds
At high speeds, a boat can become extremely difficult to maneuver and operate. It’s important that anyone operating a boat drive the vessel at a reasonable speed. This will keep the boat and its occupants safe as well as anyone or anything near the boat.
Boating While Under the Influence of Drugs or Alcohol
As on land, operating a boat under the influence of drugs or alcohol is dangerous and illegal. If you are operating a boat while intoxicated or impaired, it affects your coordination as well as your decision-making skills. Always be sober and responsible when operating your water vessel.
Boating in Restricted Areas
Certain parts of a lake may be restricted in order to keep people safe or to protect wildlife and parts of the landscape from harm. Boating in a restricted area could put you and others at risk. Only operate a water vessel in designated areas.
Dangerous Behaviors on the Boat While in Motion
A failure to be safe on board of a water vessel could put anyone on the vessel in danger. Make sure anyone in a water craft is secure when the vehicle is in motion. They should not be running around the deck or playing on the gunwale since that increases the risk of falling overboard and other kinds of injuries.
Other Examples of Reckless Boating
Some additional examples of reckless boating and water vessel operation include:
- Driving through crowded areas
- Driving into approaching waves or waves at high speed
- Failure to carry proper safety equipment on the boat
- Having too many people on the boat
- Taking a boat out during dangerous weather conditions
- Towing a passenger on a board or waterskis in a negligent manner
Injuries Sustained in Boating Accidents
Severe head injuries, traumatic brain injuries, broken bones, spinal cord injuries, and lacerations may be sustained during a boating accident. There’s also a danger of drowning couple with other injuries.
This is why it’s so crucial to operate a boat safely. It will protect you as well as any passengers, swimmers, and others on the water.
Contact Our Boat Accident Lawyers
To learn more about your legal rights and options following a boating accident, be sure to contact our team of boating injury and accident lawyers. The team at Flickinger Sutterfield & Boulton is here to help. You can reach us by phone at (801) 753-1616.