What are the Most Common Causes of Boating Accidents?
While people get tremendous enjoyment out of boating, they are also at risk for boating accidents. Most boating accidents occur while the vessel is in operation. If someone else is at fault for causing a boating accident, a Georgia boat injury lawyer can protect your rights and help you recover damages.
According to the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG), there were 4,588 boating accidents in the United States in 2011. These accidents resulted in 3,081 injuries and 758 deaths. The 2011 statistics show that the main causes of boating accidents and resulting accident numbers were:
- Operator inattention (583)
- Improper lookout (514)
- Operator inexperience (364)
- Excessive speed (349)
- Machinery failure (319)
- Alcohol use (296)
- Hazardous waters (258)
- Weather (235)
- Rules of the road infraction (214)
- Force of wave/wake (201)
With a thorough investigation, a boating accident lawyer can determine the cause of an accident and identify responsible parties. Generally a boater is at fault, as you can see from the accident cause statistics. Proving that the defendant was negligent and therefore liable for compensating damages lies at the core of any accident and boater.
Our attorneys at Kaine Law have access to accident reconstruction engineers, private investigators who can gather evidence and interview witnesses, along with other experts whose testimony can be vital in proving a case. While most cases settle outside of court by negotiating with the defendant’s insurance company, we are also prepared to take your case to trial if necessary. We work diligently on your behalf to recover fair compensation.