Individuals who behave recklessly while boating can be a serious threat to everyone near them on the water. Boating accidents often result from negligent operation of boats. That is, individuals who fail to take into account the safety of their fellow boaters may be more likely to injure those near them.
An individual can recklessly operate his or her boat in a number of ways. Most commonly, the individual may boat under the influence of alcohol, drive too fast, or boat too close to swimmers, other boaters, and stationary objects. Any of these actions can greatly increase the chance of a collision happening.
A boating collision can have a number of effects. Depending on the force of the impact, a collision may throw individuals overboard. In other cases, collisions may cause boats to capsize, putting boat occupants at greater risk for drowning. When the collision is with a swimmer, the swimmer may suffer broken bones, head and brain injuries, or worse.
Since boats operate on the water, drowning is a serious risk in any boating accident. A person may suffer drowning or near drowning. Those who suffer drowning pass away from asphyxiation. Those who suffer near-drowning may be left with permanent brain damage, as near-drowning obstructs an individual’s oxygen supply.
Individuals who have been the victims of boating accidents may be entitled to financial compensation from the individuals who caused the incident in question. Accidents victims who wish to seek compensation will need to file personal injury lawsuits against the reckless boater(s). In these cases, individuals are advised to seek experienced legal help.
Hiring a lawyer will not guarantee victory in any case, but a lawyer may be able to help an individual build a stronger case that is more likely to result in victory.