According to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, most boating fatalities are not weather-related. Fatalities typically occur in open vessels on inland waters in the afternoon when the weather and visibility are good, and the winds and water light and calm.
Boating injuries can be caused by: driver intoxication, collisions with other boats, hitting bridges or barriers in the water and being struck by a boat while in the water.
The most frequent cause of death among boaters is the capsizing of the boat and its passengers falling overboard. While there are very strict rules for the operation of boats, inexperienced drivers often ignore the rules and serious injuries or death can result.
The majority of all injuries involve alcohol consumption. A recent study by the United States Coast Guard shows that a boater with a blood alcohol concentration of .10 is ten times more likely to be killed in a boating accident than someone who is sober.
Boating cases are pursued under the boat owner or driver’s homeowner’s coverage. The injured person’s health insurance may also be involved. The lawyers at Walker Law Office, P.A. will help clarify what duties are owed in the water, handle the insurance claims and allow you to focus on getting better.
If you have been injured in a boating crash, then please call Walker Law Office, P.A. at (612) 821-0094, (214) 550-3333 or email walker@walkerjustice.com.