Exploring Common Types of Boat Accidents: From Collisions to Capsizing

Recreational boating is one of North Port, Florida’s most popular leisure activities. Though boating is a fun and relaxing way of spending free time, it is not without risks. Hundreds of people die each year due to boating accidents, and thousands are left with serious injuries. And since most of these boating accidents are caused by a lack of knowledge about the potential causes, it’s important to educate occasional or first-time boaters about the boating laws that apply in Florida.

Statistics indicate that the number of boat accidents, injuries, and fatalities in Florida is on the rise. The state reports approximately 628 boating accidents and about 59 fatalities annually. With these staggering numbers, it’s important to work with an experienced North Port boating accident lawyer to help you navigate the complex legal landscape surrounding boating accidents and help you get the compensation you truly deserve.

Common Types Of Boating Accidents

Below are some of the most common causes of boat accidents and their legal implications:

1. Boat Collisions

Boat collisions are usually the most common type of boating accident. Collisions are particularly prevalent during the summers when several boaters flock to the water. A boat collision may be triggered by over-speeding, negligence, or inability to control the boat. Injuries ranging from mild to severe are common in boat collisions, especially if the people on board are not securely strapped to their seats. As a result, a collision sends everyone flying around the boat and colliding with onboard objects. 

Navigating and operating a boat requires extensive skill and expertise. Unfortunately, some novice operators get into the waters without following standard protocols and safety measures. If an inexperienced, novice or simply careless operator leads to errors that cause a boating accident, you can hold them liable for your accident and seek compensation for your injuries and property damage.

2. Capsizing from Bad Weather Conditions

Ignoring weather warnings can be a fast and fatal mistake in recreational boating. When boat operators ignore these warnings, they accept full responsibility for the risks involved. Bad weather conditions inhibit the visibility of other boats and marine objects and open up vulnerability to huge waves that can capsize even bigger boats. When going out on a boating trip, remember to get up-to-date weather highlights to prevent nasty encounters.

3. Grounding Around Beaches

Grounding or “running aground” can occur when a boat unintentionally hits a reef, beach, rock piling, or other landings that inhibit boats from moving in the water. While grounding is embarrassing, it can cause major damage to property, including docks or the boat itself. It can also cause serious injury to passengers, particularly in hard grounding situations.

4. Onboard Slip and Fall 

Sometimes passengers can slip and fall on the boat, leading to serious injuries. Such injuries are quite common and are caused by the following:

• Loose cargo or lines
• Unmarked obstructions
• Slippery surfaces
• Lack of barriers, guard rails, and safety nets

5. Propeller Accidents

In rare cases, boating accident injuries can occur when the boat’s sharp propeller blades come in contact with a passenger or operator. This can lead to lacerations or even limb amputations. 

6. Run-Over Accidents

Smaller boats like jet skis and personal watercraft can run over divers and snorkelers on the water. Such incidents are often traumatic and may occur when there is a high traffic of vessels and people in the water.

7. Passengers Thrown Overboard

Boating accidents can also lead to passengers being thrown overboard, especially when cruising at high speeds. When this occurs, the passengers may sustain serious injuries from the fall or even drown. That’s why it’s critical to wear a life jacket whenever you enter a recreational boat for any activity.

Hiring A Skilled Personal Injury Lawyer!

While boating accident injuries are generally preventable, they can still happen due to a variety of factors, including the negligence of other boaters. If you have been involved in a boating accident, you may be entitled to compensatory damages. However, you need to hire a personal injury attorney to help you get fair compensation for your injuries and property damage. The sooner you contact an experienced boat accident attorney, the sooner you can resolve your case. With an attorney’s help, you can recover compensation for your medical expenses, lost time at work, pain and suffering, and more.