Boating accidents and injuries are unfortunately common in the waterways and coastal areas of the United States. Many injuries involve recreational boaters, but those who work in the shipping industry — or any related industry where workers spend a lot of time on the water — also face serious risks of being injured.
The most common causes of accidents and injuries
It’s important to know why these accidents and injuries happen so that you can do everything possible to avoid them. The U.S. Coast Guard lists these as some of the most common reasons for boating accidents:
- Running aground
- Operating under the influence
- Running out of fuel
- Getting hit by a storm at sea
- Falling overboard
- Breaking down
- Catching fire
- Not having the right safety gear
- Speeding, especially when it is dark or visibility is otherwise impaired
- Not maintaining a proper lookout
- Failing to note weather conditions
Those who work on ships also face additional risks such as working with heavy machinery, slipping and falling on a wet deck, being electrocuted by exposed wires and much more. A ship has many of the same hazards that you’d find in a factory or on a construction site, but they’re more dangerous because of the remote location.
The laws regarding maritime incidents are unique in the United States. Those who are injured need to know exactly what legal options they have. An injury can change the course of your life and could drastically impact your employment. You have to take this seriously and work to make sure you get the compensation that you deserve after the incident. An experienced attorney can help.