Summer Is A Great Time To Get Out On The Water in San Diego. However, When California Boaters Disregard Rules, Regulations, And The Safety Of Others, There Are Dangerous Consequences.
In 2008 alone, the United States Coast Guard counted 4,789 accidents that involved 709 deaths, 3,331 injuries, and approximately $54 million dollars of damage to property as a result of recreational boating accidents.
Top 5 Factors in Boating Accidents
- Careless/reckless operation
- Operator inattention
- Insufficient lookout
- Operator inexperience
- Passenger/skier behavior
Alcohol is the leading factor in fatal boating accidents, and California law strictly prohibits anyone from operating a boat while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. "Stressors" like motion, vibration, engine noise, sun, wind, and spray may accelerate a drinker's impairment, causing an operator to lack judgment and awareness.
Though the federal legal limit is .08% Blood Alcohol Contact (BAC), you can be charged with boating under the influence (BUI) at .05%.
10 Boating Safety Tips
- Always wear a life jacket and insist that your crew and guests do the same.
- Never drink alcohol while boating.
- Take a boating safety course.
- Stay in control by taking charge of your safety and that of your passengers.
- Understand and obey boating safety recommendations and navigational rules of navigation before taking to the water, and practice them without fail.
- Operate at a safe speed and always maintain a careful lookout.
- Check the weather forecast.
- Have your vessel checked for safety - for free! The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary offers Vessel Safety Checks at no cost.
- Use a carbon monoxide detector.
- File a float plan. The U.S. Coast Guard recommends that you always tell a friend or family member where you plan to go and when you'll be back.
If you are engaging in water sports, confine jet skiing and water skiing to daylight hours. Also, make sure you are familiar with navigation and state boating laws.
By following these rules, you can ensure a fun and safe day out on the water for you and your family.
Contact a Boating Accident Attorney
Remember, waterways can get really congested during the dog days of summer. It is your responsibility to keep you, your passengers, and the people around you safe by following your state's boating regulations.
If you or someone you love was injured in a recreational boating accident due to someone else's negligence, you are entitled to receive compensation that covers your medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering.
If an accident occurs, the State of California requires vessel operators to report the incident to the California Department of Boating and Waterways (CDBW). Our experienced San Diego boat accident attorneys at Jurewitz Law Group will make sure that you get the compensation you need and deserve. Call our personal injury office at (888) 233-5020.
Have you been injured in an accident in San Diego or anywhere in California and don't know what to do next? We are here to help and provide you with the important and relevant information you need to make an informed decision about:
- How to handle your personal injury claim
- Who is the right injury accident attorney to help you with your case, and
- Whether you even need to hire a lawyer to help you with your insurance claim
Call the Jurewitz Law Group at 888-233-5020 to order one of our free California personal injury books to get the information you need or to set up a free consultation with one of our experienced San Diego personal injury attorneys.
