In 2018, the U.S. Coast Guard found that more than 100 of the 633 boating fatalities across the country were alcohol-related, and impairment was the leading contributor to deaths. In Pennsylvania, statistics were similar, with 3 out of 14 of boating-related fatalities being alcohol or drug impairment-related.
With the 2020 Labor Day holiday weekend days away and the marking of the unofficial end of summer, we still need to practice boating safety.
Top Causes of Boating Accidents
Spending the last viable weekend of the summer out on the lake always seems like a great idea–until accidents happen. Be mindful of the top causes of boating accidents this Labor Day.
- Alcohol: In Pennsylvania, it is illegal to operate any watercraft while impaired. The blood alcohol limit for boat operators is .08%. Penalties for Boating Under the Influence include fines, loss of boating privileges, and imprisonment.
- Speeding: Just like speeding in your car is a bad idea, speeding on a boat is just as dangerous. Not only is excessive speed dangerous, operating a motorboat at any speed with a person sitting, riding, or hanging on a swim platform or swim ladder attached to the motorboat, is not permitted.
- Falling Overboard: Whether it is pure clumsiness or inebriation, falling overboard can be incredibly dangerous, especially on crowded waters. In many situations, life jackets are required when out on the water; unfortunately, many boaters don’t wear them, or don’t wear the proper gear.
- Boating in Bad Weather: We know Pennsylvania weather can be less than desirable. But as a boat operator, it’s important to keep an eye on the skies for inclement weather that can turn a beautiful afternoon into tragedy.
Remember, Pennsylvania law requires anyone born on or after January 1, 1982, to have a Boating Safety Education Certificate (BSEC) to operate a boat powered by a motor greater than 25 horsepower. If you are involved in a boating accident with a boat operator who has not complied with all of Pennsylvania’s boating laws, your personal injury case will further complicate.
But with Kalinoski Law Offices by your side, if you are injured as a result of a boater’s negligence, you may be compensated for medical bills, lost wages, emotional damages, and any other expenses incurred as a result of the accident.
Labor Day Boating Safety: Personal Injury, Craig Kalinoski
Accidents happen. But when they do, you need a personal injury attorney you can count on. If you or a loved one are involved in a Labor Day boating accident this holiday weekend and sustain injuries including traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, bone breaks, or death, contact the personal injury attorney, Craig Kalinoski.