Atlanta Boating Accident Attorneys

Georgia Boating Accident Claims

As the weather warms, more and more people are spending their time outdoors. One of many people’s favorite ways to enjoy the spring and summer months is to enjoy rivers and lakes. There are few better ways to spend a beautiful weekend than relaxing and boating on a lake.

Unfortunately, boating comes along with many dangerous risks not unlike other motor vehicles. Due to their unique nature and the environment in which they are operated, boating accidents can occur and cause serious injury.

What are Some Common Causes of Boating Accidents?

Boats are simply motor vehicles that travel on water instead of land. They come with most of the risks of cars and trucks, but also have a set of risks and challenges that are unique to them. For example, boats are much harder to control than cars and are more susceptible to weather and user inexperience.

Some of the common causes of boating accidents are:

• Operator inexperience
• Equipment failure
• Reckless operation
• Excessive speed
• Boat overloading
• Operator inattention
• Passenger and skier behavior
• Failure to yield to other watercraft
• Alcohol use
• Improperly marked shallow areas or other obstacles in the water

Common Injuries Due to Boating Accidents

Boating accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, some of which can be severe or even life-threatening. The specific injuries that occur in a boating accident can vary depending on several factors, including the type of boat, the circumstances of the accident, and the safety measures in place.

Common injuries due to boating accidents include:

Drowning: Drowning is one of the most serious and common consequences of boating accidents. If a person is thrown overboard and cannot swim or reach safety, they may drown. Wearing life jackets can significantly reduce the risk of drowning.

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): Head injuries are a significant concern in boating accidents, especially if individuals are thrown from the boat or hit their heads on hard surfaces. TBIs can range from concussions to severe brain damage.

Fractures and Orthopedic Injuries: The force of a collision or being thrown around in a boat can lead to broken bones, dislocations, and other orthopedic injuries.

Lacerations and Abrasions: Boating accidents can result in cuts, scrapes, and abrasions from contact with sharp objects or rough surfaces on the boat.

Spinal Cord Injuries: Severe boating accidents can cause spinal cord injuries, which can lead to partial or complete paralysis. These injuries often result from high-impact collisions or diving into shallow water.

Burns: Fires or explosions on boats can cause burns to passengers or crew members. Burns can be especially severe if they involve fuel or chemicals.

Hypothermia: Falling into cold water, particularly in cooler weather, can lead to hypothermia, which can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.

Electrocution: Electric shock or electrocution can occur if a boat's electrical system is faulty or damaged. Swimmers or individuals in contact with the water can be at risk.

Carbon Monoxide Poisoning: Boats with enclosed cabins or generators can produce carbon monoxide (CO) gas. Prolonged exposure to high levels of CO can lead to poisoning, which can be fatal.

Soft Tissue Injuries: Strains, sprains, and other soft tissue injuries can occur when people are thrown or jolted during a boating accident.

Internal Injuries: The force of a collision can cause internal injuries, such as damage to internal organs, internal bleeding, or ruptured blood vessels.

Emotional and Psychological Trauma: In addition to physical injuries, boating accidents can lead to emotional and psychological trauma, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and anxiety.

Contact Our Firm Today

If you or a loved one was injured in a boating accident due to someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to recovery for your medical expenses and other damages. The best way to determine if you should file a claim is to schedule a free consultation with the experienced Atlanta boating accident attorneys at Shane Smith Law as soon as possible.

Call (980) 246-2656 or contact us online to learn more about your options after an boating accident.