Boating Safety & What to Do After an Accident
July 28, 2022 | Adriel B. Villarreal
Boating is one of most popular summer activities for Minnesotans, making it crucial that everyone on the water takes the necessary safety precautions. According to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR), there were 18 boating deaths, 69 non-fatal boating accidents, and 53 non-boating drownings reported throughout the state in 2021. Being cautious and attentive helps keep everyone safe and having fun. However, the fact remains that there’s no guarantee. Continue reading to learn more about boating safety and what you should do if you have an accident.
Boating safety tips and regulations
First things first, we want to outline precautions everyone should take when boating. These tips will help keep you, your passengers, and those in other boats safe.
- Wear a life jacket
- Stay sober and never illegally operate a boat under the influence*
- Tell someone where you are going and when you plan to be back
- Be aware of current and upcoming weather
- Avoid distractions and always stay alert of your surroundings
- Remain seated whenever the boat is being driven
- Drive the boat responsibly
- Have the proper equipment on your boat
- Have a boating license if required
- Don’t allow more than the maximum people on your boat
Additionally, you may want to consider a boating safety course. This will give you a lot of valuable information that you may not learn otherwise, helping you keep everyone safe and secure.
*It is important to note that it is against the law to operate a boat while intoxicated. If you are found guilty of a BWI, you could face jail time and lose your boating license.
What to do after a boating accident
If you are involved in a boating accident, you should treat it just like a car accident. By law, you are required to file a report with authorities immediately following the accident. When filing a report on what occurred, you should report if someone sustained an injury that requires a medical treatment, if someone was killed, if there were damages that exceeded $500, and/or if someone disappeared from the boat during the accident.
Contact Barna, Guzy & Steffen
If you or anyone involved sustained serious injuries from a boating accident and are suffering from damages, call Barna, Guzy & Steffen ASAP. Our trusted attorneys will work closely with you and understand every aspect of the case. Our goal is to settle your claim quickly and efficiently with maximum recovery possible under law.
Contact us for more information or to schedule a free consultation.