Getting out on the water this summer? Read these tips first.
With summer fast approaching, boating season is just around the corner. And while boating is meant to be a fun endeavor, it can pose some risks, and even lead to accidents if you aren’t properly educated. That’s why we at Tolbert Beadle, along with our expert personal injury lawyers, have taken the time to outline a few tips to help you avoid such a scenario.
Make a Pre-Departure Checklist
In order to make sure you have all the tools and safety equipment necessary for an outing on the water, it’s good practice to make a pre-departure checklist. Include things such as: flotation devices, fire extinguishers, water and any other food or beverage items you would like to stock up on. While a checklist may not be the hippest thing to do, it will keep you prepared for any scenario you encounter on the water.
Be Aware of the Weather
This may sound elementary, but it’s imperative that you check the weather before getting out on the water. Poor weather has the ability to greatly affect your boat, putting the situation out of your control. If the forecast calls for inclement weather, or if you notice something as minor as dark clouds in the sky, it’s in your best interest to play it safe and avoid venturing out until the skies clear.
Don’t Drink and Operate a Boat
We get it; it’s your time off and you want to have a good time. But like drinking and driving, drinking and boating don’t mix. The accumulation of hours spent under the sun can increase the effects that alcohol can have on your system, further hampering your ability to properly operate a boat. If you intend on drinking while on the boat, make sure you have a designated driver.
Boat Maintenance
Regular boat maintenance is a simple way to decrease your chances of an accident. Not only that, but in the unfortunate scenario that you are involved in a boating accident, proper boat maintenance can prevent you from being sued for negligence.
Avoid Reckless Driving
Just because you’re not on land, doesn’t mean there aren’t certain rules and regulations you have to follow. In fact, you can actually be cited for many of the same infractions on the water that you can on the land. Not only that, but reckless driving also increases your chances of being in a boating accident. That doesn’t mean you can’t have fun while on the water, but be mindful of the way you’re operating your boat.
Take a Boat Safety Course
A boat safety course is a great way to educate yourself on proper boating practice, as well as prepare you in case of an emergency situation. Even if you’ve taken a safety course in the past, it can’t hurt to refresh your memory for the upcoming season.
Final Thoughts From a Personal Injury Lawyer
If you plan on getting out on the water this summer or spring, take the time to properly educate yourself about the safety precautions you should take. It’ll ensure your safety, and give you peace of mind during your much deserved time off. Not only that, but it’ll all but guarantee that you don’t to take a trip to a law firm to hire an auto accident lawyer this summer.
For more information of safety boating tips, or the steps you should take if you’re involved in such an incident, contact one of the personal injury lawyers at Tolbert Beadle. They’ll be happy to answer any questions you have!
(All information retrieved from ddlawyers.com and mongeandassociates.com)
