Common Causes of Boating Accidents Are Also the Most Preventable

Thousands of people have discovered the unique sense of fun and relaxation that comes from boating. Boaters enjoy the serenity and beauty of open water, while being part of a community of kindred people who extend their love of life to their fellow boaters. Unfortunately, boaters can fall prey to this atmosphere of recreation and leisure when it clouds the inherent dangers of water sports and the importance of safety. According to the National Safe Boating Council, there were over 700 boating fatalities in 2009. The good news is that the most common causes of boating accidents are preventable.

Inexperienced Boater
The California Department of Boating and Waterways blames operator inexperience for 41 percent of boating accidents in 1998. Boater inexperience is the leading cause of boating accidents nationwide. For this reason, the Arizona Game and Fish Department recommends that every boater take at least one boater education class and reviews boating laws applicable to their area. The most inexperienced boaters are those who rent their watercraft. For this reason, rental companies should be particularly diligent to educate every operator of a rented boat.

Operation Inattention
Boat operators are often on vacation along with the rest of the passengers. From fishing to beautiful people sunbathing, boating abounds with distractions. Operators mustn't forget their main responsibility. As benign as the glistening water may look, it is both deadly and unpredictable. Boat operators must be alert and ready to react to such dangers as inclement weather or impending crashes with other boats.

Alcohol
Education and attention won't prevent boating accidents if alcohol is involved. Alcohol was involved in more than half of boating fatalities in Arizona alone. Marine accident investigators in Minnesota say that even small amounts of alcohol are enough cause "measurable impairment" in even experienced boaters. From longer reaction times to diminished nocturnal vision, alcohol wreaks havoc on an operator's ability to safely navigate watercraft.

Boating is a hobby that quickly turns into a passion once boaters experience the fun and freedom of roaming lakes and rivers. The water's beauty disguises its dangers. Safety can quickly become a secondary concern for the inexperience, distracted or inebriated boat operator. The most common causes of boating accidents are also the most preventable.

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