Boating is a popular outdoor activity in Georgia. People love going out on rivers and lakes to enjoy a day on the water, and whether a person is on a boat or enjoying a ride on a jet ski, they typically assume nothing bad will happen.
Anyone who’s out on Georgia’s waterways should remember that safety must remain the priority. Remembering some of the more common hazards may help these individuals to remain as safe as possible.
Boater’s actions
A boater’s actions are one of the most common causes of boating crashes. According to information from the United States Coast Guard, six out of the top 10 contributing factors of recreational boat crashes can be attributed to the boater’s actions.
- Operator inattention
- Improper lookout
- Operator inexperience
- Navigation rules violation
- Excessive speed
- Alcohol use
Boaters should exercise caution similar to what’s expected while driving. This means avoiding fatigue, impairment and distractions. Following navigation rules, whether they’re enacted into law or posted, is also critical.
Congested waterways
Congested waterways are another issue that can lead to crashes. Boats, jet skis and other water toys can’t stop in the same way as a vehicle, so boaters must become familiar with how factors like waves and wakes can affect navigation. When the waterways are congested, precise navigation is critical, so it should be left only to experienced boaters.
Faulty equipment
Machinery failure is the fourth leading cause of recreational boating crashes. When a boat becomes inoperable on the water, it’s at risk of being hit by other boats. This is especially true if the boat is in a location, such as a bend, that’s not easily visible.
Anyone who suffers an injury on the water due to another person’s negligence may need urgent medical attention. This can sometimes be delayed because of the difficulty of getting care on the water. That delay may lead to increased problems. Victims of these incidents may choose to seek compensation from the liable party. Georgia law has strict time limits, so swift action is critical.