It is summer and more recreational boaters will be hitting the waters of the Mississippi River and Gulf of Mexico. Our
New Orleans maritime accident attorneys have created this list of the seven most common causes of boating accidents. We hope it helps you avoid accidents and prevent maritime injury.
The 7 Most Common Causes of Boating Accidents
1. Drug and alcohol intoxication
2. Operator inexperience
3. Boat operator distraction
4. Recklessness and excessive speed
5. Poor boat maintenance
6. Bad weather
7. Overloading a boat with too much passegers or too much cargo
To avoid maritime injury, make sure:
- There are enough life jackets onboard for every passenger
- That your boat is well-maintained and has enough fuel for the trip
- That you have let someone know your travel plans and that you have a personal locating device or radio beacon.
We also suggest that all boaters take a boating safety course.
Unfortunately, regardless of how prepared you are, not all boat accidents can be avoided. Injuries on the water are not like injuries on land; they are governed under
federal maritime law. If you have sustained a boating injury, contact The Young Firm at 866-938-6113 to discuss your claim with an experienced maritime accident attorney.
Category: Maritime Law
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