Boating Accident Statistics & Safety Tips

Despite the fact that boating can be a sensational way to relax and enjoy beautiful waterways, accidents still do unfortunately happen. Boating accidents can occur as the result of irresponsible behavior, environmental elements, or simply as the result of chance. No matter what the cause is, boating accidents still occur, and they can be very costly when they do.

In the State of South Carolina, there were 552 recreational boating accidents between 2011 and 2015. This is a significant number. Due to the fact that so many accidents occur from recreational boating, it is important to take proper safety precautions when participating when planning your trip and while out on the water. Here are some great boat safety tips.

Avoid Operating Under the Influence

Operating a boat under the influence of alcohol is illegal, just as operating a motor vehicle under the influence is illegal. In most states the legal blood alcohol limit for boating is .08 percent. Any levels above this point are considered to be illegal—and you can get a “BUI” or Boating Under the Influence charge if you are found to be boating with a high blood alcohol level. Be careful to avoid this hazardous behavior.

Always Mind the Weather

When large storms arise, it can be very dangerous to operate your boat. Large swells, unpredictable tides, floating debris, rain, hail, lightning, and other storm-related hazards can all make the safe operating of a boat significantly more difficult. The last thing you want is for your boat to capsize or otherwise sustain damage simply because you decided to take it out without checking the weather. Always make sure to check for storms and other weather conditions before embarking.

Make Sure Your Passengers Wear Life Jackets

Life jackets can be critically important if your boat capsizes or if you and your passengers are forced to jump ship because your boat is sinking. They can also be extremely important in the event that a passenger on your vessel is accidentally tossed overboard. Life Jackets are a common sense way to add extra safety to your boating experiences. An average of 85 percent of boating-related drowning victims were not wearing life-jackets. This means that if more people wear life jackets when boating, large percentages of fatal drownings can be prevented.

Ensure Financial Protection in the Case of a Boating Accident

We hope that an accident never occurs on your boat, but it is better to be prepared. Maritime Insurance International has a wide variety of marine insurance policies that provide coverage for boating accidents and other risks. View our excellent boat and yacht insurance options online, or call us today for more information.