Boating Accident Stats And Facts
Corbin Sutter
Boating Accidents
It's no secret that Florida is a great place to enjoy the great outdoors boating. Regardless of what you're into, fishing, water sports, or something else, the Sunshine State is the spot to be. One reason why is because there are 1,350 miles of coastline. Or if you aren't into going out and into the open ocean, how about a lake or river? There are plenty of those across the state too.
However, before you decide to take the old boat, jet ski, or another watercraft out for a spin, there are some things you should know about boating in the U.S. because the venture could wind up being way more than you bargained for. But, please, don't merely take our word for it. Instead, let these stats we've collected do the talking. Don't let them shy you away from doing what you love, but after reviewing everything, if nothing else, you'll at least know how dangerous the ordeal could be.
More Than 5,000 Boating Accidents Annually
Research reveals that there are over 5,000 boating accidents in the United States each year. Of course, Florida is no stranger to them. In 2020, the state led the nation with registered vessels at 985,005. That's probably why the Boating Accident Statistical Report revealed Florida accounted for 836 such incidents in that same year. There are a lot of boats on the water at any given time, and a single slip up is all it takes for things to turn ugly.
Alcohol Is Often A Contributing Factor
It is legal for passengers to consume alcohol on boats. However, it is illegal for a person to drink or use drugs while operating a vessel. Yet, that doesn't stop many individuals. In fact, Americanboating.org, where the primary cause of accidents was known, alcohol was listed as the top factor in 18 percent of deaths.
The Majority Of Drowning Victims Aren't Wearing Life Jackets
In 2022, Quicknav.com says 86 percent of drowning victims were not wearing life jackets. Of course, this year isn't quite over yet, so that number could very well increase before the boating season is done and over with. It is estimated that a mere 11.6 percent of adults wear life-saving floatation devices. Meanwhile, the number for kids is better, but still not great at only 65.8 percent.
A Surge In Boat Propeller Accidents
One might think the COVID pandemic slowed recreational boating down, but that isn't what happened. While much of the world was locked up tight, there was an increase in recreational boating. To each their own, and if people wanted to be out on the water, that is their prerogative. However, due to folks hitting lakes, oceans, and rivers on their watercraft, boat propeller accidents surged to 44 percent during the pandemic.
Unfortunately, it looks like this may still be a problem today. How do we know that? Headlines reveal what's going on, including:
▪ Fox 21 News - “A Terrible Accident”: Woman Hit By Boat Propeller At Lake Pueblo
▪ AOL - Woman Falls Off Bow Of Boat And Gets Sucked Under It Into Propeller, Florida Cops Say
▪ Idaho Statesmen - Woman Thrown From Jet Ski Dies After Hitting Boat Propeller, Colorado Officials Say
▪ KSLA - Teen Girl Killed After Going Overboard, Hitting Boat Propeller; Driver Charged
Are You Entitled To Fair Compensation?
Did someone's negligence cause a boating accident that left you severely injured? Or did the event kill a loved one? If you answered yes to either question, you might have the grounds to seek compensation. Contact All Injuries Law Firm, P.A., to discuss the matter and see if you have a legitimate restitution claim.