Long weekends, warm weather, and open water—boating season is in full swing. But before you head out on the lake, river, or ocean, take a moment to review the risks. Each year, hundreds of boating accidents result in serious injuries and fatalities—many of them preventable.
At Cooper Levenson, we have seen firsthand how boating mishaps can change lives in an instant. While we are here to help if the unexpected happens, we would much rather see you enjoy a safe and relaxing day on the water.
Top Boating Safety Tips to Keep in Mind This Summer:
- Don’t Boat Under the Influence – Boating under the influence (BUI) is just as dangerous—and illegal—as driving under the influence. Alcohol impairs judgment, slows reaction time, and increases the risk of falling overboard or colliding with other vessels.
- Wear a Life Jacket—Always – Drownings remain the leading cause of death in boating accidents, and the vast majority of victims were not wearing life jackets. Make sure there is a properly fitted, U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket for every person onboard—and wear them, especially if you are not a strong swimmer.
- Watch the Weather – Sudden storms, wind shifts, or fog can turn a pleasant outing into a dangerous situation. Check the forecast before heading out and be prepared to return to shore if conditions change.
- Follow Navigation Rules – Boaters must obey the “rules of the road” just like drivers do. This includes maintaining a safe speed, yielding when appropriate, and keeping a proper lookout at all times.
- Don’t Overload the Boat – Every boat has a weight limit. Overcrowding can affect stability and increase the risk of capsizing, especially in rough water.
- Tell Someone Your Plans – Before heading out, share your itinerary with someone on shore. Let them know where you are going and when you plan to be back. If something goes wrong and you cannot call for help, this information could make all the difference.
When Boating Accidents Aren’t Just Accidents
Sometimes, injuries on the water happen because someone failed to act responsibly—whether it is a reckless boat operator, a defective vessel, or a rental company that failed to provide safety equipment or training. Our personal injury team at Cooper Levenson is experienced in handling complex boating accident cases.
Enjoy the ride—but stay alert, stay sober, and stay safe.
If you need us, we are ready to help you chart the right course toward recovery.
Get in touch with Cooper Levenson’s Personal Injury Practice today if you need assistance with a boating accident. Kathleen F. Beers, Esq. handles personal injury law and can be reached at kbeers@cooperlevenson.com or (609) 572-7570.
The content of this post should not be construed as legal advice. You should consult a lawyer concerning your particular situation and any specific legal question you may have.