Safety Tips To Prevent Boat Accidents In Miami
The spring and summer months are among the most busy times of year on local waterways. Local boaters and those visiting the area from other places are eager to take advantage of the longer days and warmer weather. Unfortunately, the increase in boat traffic can make boat accidents more likely to happen. Our Miami boat accident lawyer shares some of the common causes and safety tips to help prevent these crashes.
Boating Safety Month Raises Awareness Of Boating Accident Risks
National Boat Safety Week is held annually each year during the month of May. With a major uptick in boating activities, it is the perfect time to raise awareness of common hazards on local waterways.
According to statistics from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), Miami-Dade County is one of the most likely places in the state for boating accidents to happen. These end up causing serious and potentially life-threatening personal injuries for hundreds of people each year. Among the most common causes include:
- Boat operator inexperience;
- Boat operator distraction and failure to maintain a lookout;
- Excessive speed;
- Reckless operations;
- Boat hull or equipment failures;
- Operating the boat while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Precautions To Prevent Boat Accidents In Miami
Boat accidents in Miami often happen due to negligence on the part of boat operators. This means acting in a reckless manner or failing to take reasonable precautions. When boat accident injuries occur as a result, those at fault can be held liable for property damages, medical expenses, lost wages, and other costs others suffer.
To protect yourself and your passengers and prevent boat accidents in Miami from happening, take the following precautions:
- If you are a new boater or it has been years since you have been on the water, consider taking an FWC-approved boater safety course;
- Make sure your boat is sized properly for your skill level and the type of waterway you are traveling in;
- Make sure your boat is well-maintained and has a two-way radio, fuel, flashlights, flares, and other emergency supplies on board;
- Make sure you have approved life jackets for all boat passengers;
- Familiarize yourself with the area you will be traveling to before heading out;
- Check water and weather conditions before heading out;
- Do not hesitate to cancel or postpone your trip if needed;
- Let others know your itinerary and when you will be back;
- Avoid speeding and other reckless behaviors;
- Avoid alcohol or anything that could impact your skills and judgment;
- If you plan on swimming, snorkeling, or scuba diving, never do so alone, near the propeller, or in areas of heavy boat traffic.
Request A Consultation With Our Miami Boat Accident Lawyers
At Pita Weber & Del Prado, we help victims of boat accidents in Miami hold those at fault accountable and get the compensation they are entitled to in a claim. To request a consultation, reach out and call 305-670-2889 or contact our Miami boat accident lawyers online today.
Sources:
weather.gov/safety/safeboating-week
myfwc.com/media/29125/2021-basr-top10.pdf
myfwc.com/boating/safety-education/courses/
