The popularity of personal watercraft in Missouri and other states has significantly increased the number of individuals on American waterways. According to the United States Coast Guard, in 2008 there were 12,692,892 boats registered in the U.S. Unfortunately, with the enjoyment of boating also comes the pain and anguish of boating accidents.

The U.S. Coast Guard reports that the number of boating accidents is on the rise, with 4,789 accidents involving 709 fatalities and 3,331 injuries in 2008. These accidents amounted to approximately $54 million dollars of damage to property.

The U.S. Coast Guard reports that in 2008:

• Only 10% of deaths occurred on vessels where the operator had received boating safety instruction.
• Seven out of 10 boaters who drowned were using vessels less than 21 feet in length.
• Operator inattention, careless / reckless operation, passenger / skier behavior, excessive speed, and alcohol use rank as the top-five primary contributing factors in accidents.
• Alcohol use is the leading contributing factor in fatal boating accidents; it was listed as the leading factor in 17% of the deaths.

 

Boating accidents are categorized as “personal injury cases,” which result from property owners' negligence, poor property maintenance and unsafe conditions. Primarily boating accidents occur as a result of the boat operator's negligence or recklessness, although some boating accidents are caused by either equipment or machinery failure.

Use the following safety checklist as a guideline to keep you and your passengers safe on your next boating excursion in Missouri:

• Be sure the appropriate number and size of life jackets (personal flotation devices) are stowed and easily accessible to all passengers.
• Children under the age of 12 must wear their life jacket at all times.
• Any drivers should complete an appropriate Boater’s Safety Course.
• Conduct a Vessel Safety Check to ensure all equipment and electronics are in proper working order.
• Sufficient food and water should be stowed and available for all passengers.
• No alcohol should be consumed on board.

More Information:

• About Boating Accidents