As the temperatures heat up and Florida’s waterways become more congested, it is time to start talking about boat accidents again. With 2,000 marinas, 1,700 miles of rivers, more than 3 million acres of lakes, and 8,000 miles of coastline, Florida is a mecca for boaters. Unfortunately, it also has the highest number of boating accidents. In 2011, the most recent year for which state data is available, there were 67 boating fatalities in Florida, a 24 percent increase since 2008. Boating injuries also rose 12 percent during that same time frame, with 431 in 2011.
As we have previously discussed on this Florida Injury Blog, boating accidents are attributed to a variety of factors. They include speeding, reckless operation, inexperience, and alcohol impairment. Accordingly, many Florida boating accidents are preventable.
Below are several key tips:
- Never use drugs or alcohol before or during boat operation.
- Use and maintain the right safety equipment, including life jackets, fire extinguishers, boat lights, and emergency supplies.
- Watch the weather and take appropriate steps to avoid boating in inclement weather.
- Tell someone where you are going and when you will return.
- Do not overload your boat.
- Follow the rules of the waterway.
The Dellutri Law Group is focused on making bad situations better and putting lives back together. If you or someone you love has been seriously injured in a Naples accident caused by someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation. To learn more about your legal options, contact our experienced Naples injury attorneys for a free consultation.
