In 2023, approximately 564 people died as a result of boating accidents in the United States. This is a low number; in fact, the overall number of deaths and injuries related to boating accidents decreased over the past two decades. Compared to the previous year, the number of deaths directly linked to boating decreased by around 11%.
A boat accident, whether it involves a collision, capsizing, or another form of accident, can be traumatic and dangerous. Sadly, most boating accidents are preventable. For instance, boating accidents in Tampa are commonly caused by a lack of experience on the part of the operator. Unseasoned boaters may find it difficult to navigate, comprehend boating regulations, and control the vessel in different water conditions.
With proper training or checking of licenses, authorities can weed out inexperienced or unlicensed boat operators. If ever you have been involved in a boating accident, here’s what you need to do:
Initial Safety Assessment
Get yourself and everyone in the boat accident safe before anything else. Check for injuries and help anyone in need. If the boat is still running, take it away from busy waterways and rocky shorelines. Cut the engine and put everyone in a life jacket.
Once you're in a secure location, assess the damage to the boat. Maritime injury lawyer Lee M. Schwalben, MD, JD says you should look for any signs of leaking or flooding that could indicate a more serious problem. If the boat is taking on water, try to locate the source of the leak and use any available materials to stop it, such as duct tape or a boat plug.
Remain calm and focused during this initial safety assessment. Panicking will only make the situation more challenging to handle. Keep communication clear and concise with everyone on board, and be prepared to act quickly if the situation worsens.
Attend to Injuries
After making sure that everyone is safe, treat any injuries. Examine yourself and others for cuts, bruises, and suffering. You should stabilize and treat injured people if you're trained. Calm the injured person while waiting for medical help and if the injury is severe, you should contact the emergency services right away.
Do not move somebody with suspected head or spinal injuries unless it’s necessary to prevent further harm. Check on everyone involved in the collision, as certain injuries may not be obvious. Your prompt and effective injury treatment can lessen the damage of their injuries or even save their lives.
Notify Authorities
Once you have attended to any injuries resulting from the boat accident, promptly notify the authorities. Whether it's the Coast Guard, marine police, or local law enforcement, informing the appropriate authorities is important in order for them to document the incident and ensure proper assistance is provided.
When contacting the authorities, be sure to provide detailed information about the accident, including the location, number of individuals involved, any injuries sustained, and the extent of damage to the vessels. Stay on the line to answer any questions they may have and follow any instructions they provide.
Document the Accident
After assuring everyone's safety and informing authorities, you should then take note of the details before and after the accident happened. Photograph boat damage, injuries, and the area. Save the contact information of witnesses and other parties. Take note of the weather, water, and other elements that may have caused the disaster.
Note the events that lead up to and during the disaster. Include boat speed, unexpected maneuvers, and signals or cautions. For insurance claims, legal actions, and investigations, this paperwork is essential.
Seek Legal Advice
Consider consulting with a legal professional following a boat accident to understand your rights and options. Seeking legal advice can help you handle legal procedures that may follow a boat accident. A skilled attorney can guide you on how to proceed, protect your rights, and seek compensation for any damages or injuries you have sustained.
When choosing a legal professional, look for someone with experience in maritime law or personal injury cases. Your attorney can accurately assess your situation, advise you on the best course of action, and represent your interests in negotiations or court proceedings.
By having a legal expert on your side, you can ensure that your rights are protected and that you receive fair treatment under the law.
Make sure to follow these steps if you find yourself involved in a boat accident. Seeking legal advice after an accident is a wise move that could save you from legal troubles down the line. By taking these steps, you can ensure that you handle the situation effectively and protect your rights.
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