What You Should Know about Boating Accidents

BOAT SAFETY

Anyone who has been in the Corpus Christi Bay quickly notices the high number of boats and jet skis shredding up the waves. Another thing you notice out in the bay is that the standard rules of the road do not necessarily apply while operating a water vessel. Therefore, driving a boat or jet ski can be very dangerous for anyone with little or no experience.

During the summer, when most people are on vacation, there are much more water vessels in the bay. This increased traffic is why it is so important for owners and operators of water vessels to understand and obey the laws of the waterway. If you are new to boating or recently purchased a boat, there are several classes you take to help you navigate the Corpus Christi Bay safely and legally.

Whether you are planning to purchase your own boat or only rent a couple of jet skis for the weekend, it is important to plan and prioritize everyone’s safety. The shoreline can be hazardous if you do not take the proper precautions before leaving the dock. While open containers of alcohol on a boat are legal, drinking and boating is illegal. More importantly, the blood alcohol concentration limit for boating and drinking is identical to limits for drinking and driving. Finally, confirm you have the correct number of life jackets on board. The Corpus Christi Bay can be a great time and a fun adventure for the summer.

Key Points on Boat Safety:

Increased Summer Traffic: During summer vacations, the bay experiences a surge in water vessel traffic, emphasizing the importance of knowing and following waterway laws to prevent accidents.
Importance of Education: New boat owners and operators are encouraged to take classes to learn how to navigate Corpus Christi Bay safely and legally.
Safety Precautions: Prioritize safety by planning ahead, understanding hazards, and ensuring everyone’s well-being before setting out on the water.
Alcohol and Boating: While open containers of alcohol are permissible on boats, drinking and boating is illegal and poses risks similar to drinking and driving. The blood alcohol concentration limit for boating is the same as that for driving.
Life Jackets: Ensure you have an adequate number of life jackets onboard as a crucial safety measure in case of emergencies or accidents on the water.

Safety Measures for Enjoyable Boating:

Prioritize safety planning before departing, including checking for hazards along the shoreline and confirming the presence of necessary safety equipment onboard.
Understand and abide by the regulations regarding alcohol consumption on boats to prevent accidents and ensure responsible boating practices.
Wear life jackets and ensure they are available for all passengers to comply with safety regulations and enhance emergency preparedness.
Stay informed about local boating laws and regulations to navigate Corpus Christi Bay safely, promoting an enjoyable and risk-free boating experience for all.

In conclusion, practicing safe boating habits, understanding waterway laws, and prioritizing the well-being of all passengers are crucial elements in ensuring a safe and enjoyable boating experience in Corpus Christi Bay. By following these guidelines and staying vigilant on the water, boaters can minimize risks and promote a culture of responsible boating practices for a fun and memorable time on the bay.

WHAT TO DO IF YOU ARE IN A BOATING ACCIDENT

If you’ve been in a boating accident or you want to know what you should do if you are in one in the future. Here’s what you need to know.

SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION

The first thing after an accident is to get any necessary medical attention for any injuries to yourself or others in your party. Stop your boat, check on everyone, and assess the situation. Always cooperate with all first responders and emergency medical personnel to keep everyone safe.

REPORT THE BOATING ACCIDENT

According to federal law, you must alert the Coast Guard if you have been involved in a boating accident. This report is critical if the accident resulted in a fatality, missing persons, an injury that requires more than first aid treatment, property damage of more than $2,000, or a lost boat or water vessel. You should also report the accident to local authorities to have an official accident report on file.

RECORD ALL EVIDENCE

Following the accident, you must record all the evidence you can. This record includes taking photos or videos of the damage resulting from the accident, taking eyewitness accounts, collecting witness contact information, and writing down your understanding of the events. It would be best if you also held on to any receipts for expenses you paid due to the accident, including repairs and medical bills.

GET LEGAL COUNSEL

If you think the accident resulted from the negligence of another party, you should retain legal counsel. An experienced personal injury attorney can help you win the compensation you deserve.

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ABOUT HERRMAN AND HERRMAN PLLC

With over 100 years of combined experience among the legal team of Herrman & Herrman, P.L.L.C., our Texas personal attorneys have successfully resolved over 20,000 cases. When representing injured Texas residents, we fight for justice against wrongdoing and aggressively pursue the best resolution to complex personal injury claims.

We remain by our clients’ side, handling all aspects of their claims and attending to all legal, medical, and financial needs. That dedication is combined with experience, legal knowledge, and insight from a former insurance adjuster and several former insurance defense attorneys. Whether our clients are suffering from physical pain from an accident or the emotional grief of death, we treat clients with compassion. We put their mind at ease during difficult times by answering their questions concerning the length of their claim, medical bills, financial compensation, and their overall need for a lawyer.