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Rhode Island Boat Accident lawyer | Types of Boat Accidents in RI

Rhode Island has plenty of waterways. These waterways are mainly used for transport, fishing, and recreation. On a hot day, there is no better feeling than riding on a recreational boat in Rhode Island’s waterways. Unfortunately, boat accidents are familiar occurrences. For example, in 2015, the Coast Guard recorded 4, 158 accidents involving recreational boats. The accidents resulted in 626 deaths and 2, 613 injuries. They also caused damages to property totaling $42 million. With that said, it is essential for every boat operator to know the common types of boat accidents and how to prevent them. More importantly, boat owners, passengers, and operators should know the steps they should take after a boat accident in order to reduce liability. If you were injured in a boating accident in Rhode Island, contact a RI boating accident lawyer or Rhode Island personal injury attorney. A top Rhode Island boat accident attorney will help you get justice and compensation

RI boat accident lawyer

Rhode Island boat accident lawyer

These article by a boat accident lawyer in RI sets forth common types of boating accidents in Rhode Island and Providence Plantations

Collision with other vessels and motorboats

This is one of the most common types of boating accidents. Sometimes, our waterways are full of activity. It is therefore easy for the operator to get distracted causing a collision with other water vessels, sailboats and motorboats. Besides distractions, other causes of boat collisions in Rhode Island include speeding and driving while intoxicated. Collision between recreational vessels was the leading type of boat accidents in 2015. It accounted for 990 accidents that lead to 36 deaths and 619 injuries.

Collision with fixed objects

Fixed objects such as rocks and posts lie along our waterways. If the operator is not attentive, the boat will collide with these objects leading to injuries. According to the Coast Guard, there were 470 accidents involving boats and fixed objects in 2015. The accidents caused 58 deaths and 321 injuries. The operator can avoid these accidents by being attentive and driving at a manageable speed.

Flooding and swamping

This type of accidents is one of the greatest causes of fatalities in our waterways. For example, in 2014, 15 percent of flooding and swamping incidents lead to deaths. In the same year, only 4.3 percent of boat collisions resulted in fatalities. In 2015, flooding and swamping accidents caused 56 deaths. Only collision of boats with fixed objects caused a higher number of fatalities in that year. Flooding and swamping accidents can be reduced by thoroughly inspecting the boat before operating it. Operators should also examine the boating area and consider weather predictions. Furthermore, operators and passengers should wear life jackets to reduce fatalities.

 Jet Skier accidents and mishaps

Water skiing is a breathtaking experience. Skiers are pulled across water bodies at high speeds. Unfortunately, water skiing is as dangerous as is thrilling. It is said that “a speed that thrills is a speed that kills.” In 2015, water skiing accidents were the fifth most common type of boat accidents in America. In that year, skier mishaps accounted for 301 accidents that resulted in 12 deaths and 319 injuries. Causes of water skiing accidents include inexperienced controllers, touching the water at a wrong angle, and drowning. Skier mishaps can be reduced by avoiding untrained and inexperienced boat operators. Skier should also wear life jackets and be ready to swim in case of an accident.  If you were injured in a RI jet ski accident, contact a Rhode Island jet ski accident lawyer.

Grounding

Some waterways have submerged obstructions such as sandbars and landmasses. Some of these obstructions are not visible to the boat operator. When the boat hits these obstructions, it is likely to get stuck or grounded. The Coast Guard recorded 350 accidental grounding incidents in 2015. These accidents resulted in 17 fatalities and 261 injuries. Grounding accidents can be avoided by riding only in familiar waters. Furthermore, the operator should make use of safety equipment such as compasses and GPS devices.

Most common causes of boat accidents

According to the US Coast Guard, the following are the top 10 causes of boat accidents in America

  1. Inattentive operators
  2. Operation of boats by untrained and inexperienced pilots
  3. Improper lookout by people tasked with ensuring water safety
  4. Breakdown of boats and other machinery
  5. Piloting boats at excessive speeds
  6. Operating boats while intoxicated
  7. Sailing boats in unfamiliar hazardous waters
  8. Violation of navigation rules
  9. Rough and unpredictable weather
  10. Overturning of boats by powerful waves

What to do if you are involved in a boat accident

Sometimes, establishing who bears the liability of a boat accident in Rhode Island is not a straightforward affair. If you are injured in a boat accident in RI, you might be eligible for personal injury compensation. After the crash, you should first seek medical attention. Once you are in a stable condition, contact an attorney who has experience in handling boat-related accidents. Besides giving you legal advice, the  RI boat accident lawyer will help you document all the information that might be required in a legal suit. The data can also be resourceful when making insurance claims.

Boating is one of the most popular recreational activities anywhere in the U.S. Nothing is more enjoyable than spending a relaxing day out on the water. Those who operate boats must take every precaution to be safe and avoid causing an accident. However, not every boater takes this seriously and accidents happen. Below is an overview of recreational boating accidents and how personal injury law can help those injured in accidents obtain compensation. If you or a loved one has been hurt in a recreational boating accident due to the negligence of another boater, it may benefit you to speak with a personal injury lawyer for advice.

RI Boat Accident attorneys

In 2014, the U.S. Coast Guard states that there were 2,678 injuries and 39 million dollars in property damage that occurred due to recreational boating accidents. While there are many different scenarios in which boating accidents can occur, some are more common than others. Some of the most common causes of recreational boating accidents are:

  • Speeding
  • Operating A Boat Under The Influence Of Alcohol
  • Striking A Bridge Or Other Object In The Water
  • Failure To Lookout For Skiers
  • Defect In The Boat Or Motor
  • Defect In The Design Of The Boat That Affects Handling
  • Navigation Rules Violation
  • Failure To Properly Vent
  • Sharp Turn
  • Restricted Vision
  • Overloading
  • Equipment Failure

Rhode Island recreational boating accident  attorney

Boating accidents often occur at high speeds, which means injuries are typically severe. Some of the most commonly reported injuries after a boating accident in RI are:

  • Traumatic Brain Injuries
  • Head Injuries Such As Concussions
  • Broken Bones
  • Crush Injuries
  • Spinal Cord Injuries
  • Paralysis
  • Severed Limbs

If you file a lawsuit for your injuries, you may be able to be compensated for certain damages and accident related expenses such as:

  • Emergency Room Fees
  • Doctor Bills
  • Surgery Costs
  • Cost Of Medical Devices
  • Price Of Occupational, Physical Or Speech Therapy
  • Lost Income

If you are unable to work for long periods of time after the  RI boat accident accident or are permanently disabled, you may be able to obtain money for future lost wages, as well. This type of settlement is designed to compensate you for the money you can no longer earn over the course of your career due to your injuries. Being hurt in a RI recreational boating accident is always stressful, but there is help available. Contact a personal injury lawyer with experience in maritime law for advice. During a consultation, your Rhode Island boat accident lawyers will let you know how to proceed with your case. USGC

“COVENTRY, R.I. (WPRI) — Six people were injured after a pontoon boat struck a seawall on Johnson’s Pond in Coventry Friday evening then landed in the backyard of a home on Hill Farm Camp Road.According to Coventry Fire Chief Frank Brown, four adults and two minors were on board the boat and suffered minor injuries. “Some broken bones and bumps and bruises,” he said. “Considering the impact, pretty minor injuries overall.” Brown said it appears the driver lost control of the boat around 5 p.m. and then fell out of his chair. The driver, according to Brown, could not recover in time to correct his steering before the boat hit the seawall. The incident remains under investigation at this time, and no one on land was hurt.” WPRI

Motorboat and sailboat accidents can vary in nature and severity, but they generally fall into several categories:

1. Collisions:

  • Boat-to-Boat Collisions: These accidents occur when two or more boats collide with each other, often due to operator error, inattention, or impaired boating.
  • Boat-to-Object Collisions: This type involves a boat colliding with fixed objects such as docks, piers, buoys, rocks, or other structures.
  • Groundings: Groundings happen when a boat runs aground, usually due to navigation errors or unfamiliarity with the waterway.

2. Capsizing and Swamping:

  • Capsizing: This occurs when a boat overturns, potentially throwing passengers and cargo into the water. It can happen due to various factors, including extreme weather conditions, overloading, or sudden shifts in weight.
  • Swamping: Swamping is when a boat is flooded with water, but it does not fully capsize. It can lead to instability and potentially sink the vessel.

3. Falls Overboard:

  • Persons Overboard (POB): Passengers or crewmembers falling overboard can result from various causes, such as rough waters, sudden boat maneuvers, or lack of safety precautions.

4. Fire and Explosions:

  • Engine Fires: Engine or fuel-related issues can lead to fires onboard boats, endangering passengers and causing significant damage.
  • Fuel Explosions: Explosions can occur if there are gas leaks or other issues related to the boat’s fuel system.

5. Drowning and Injuries:

  • Drowning: Accidents involving individuals drowning can happen due to various circumstances, including falling overboard, capsizing, or not wearing life jackets.
  • Injuries: Boat accidents can result in various injuries, such as cuts, bruises, broken bones, and head injuries.

6. Propeller Strikes:

  • Propeller Strikes: When individuals are in the water near a boat, they can be struck by the boat’s propeller. These incidents can result in severe injuries or fatalities.

7. Alcohol and Drug-Related Accidents:

  • Boating Under the Influence (BUI): Operating a boat while under the influence of alcohol or drugs can impair judgment and coordination, increasing the risk of accidents.

8. Weather-Related Incidents:

  • Storms and High Winds: Adverse weather conditions, such as storms, high winds, and rough seas, can lead to accidents by causing instability or difficulty navigating.

9. Equipment Failures:

  • Mechanical Failures: Boat accidents can occur due to mechanical failures in the engine, steering system, or other crucial components.

10. Navigation Errors: – Navigation Errors: Lack of familiarity with waterways, inadequate charts, and errors in navigation can lead to accidents like running aground or collisions.

11. Lack of Safety Equipment: – Absence of Life Jackets and Safety Gear: Failing to have or wear essential safety equipment like life jackets can increase the risk of injury or drowning.

Boat accidents can occur in various situations, and they can range from minor incidents to serious emergencies. Some common types of boat accidents include:

  1. Collisions: Boats can collide with other boats, stationary objects (such as buoys or docks), or submerged obstacles. Collisions can result in damage to vessels, injuries, or even fatalities.
  2. Groundings: When a boat runs aground, it means it has come in contact with the bottom of the body of water, often in shallow areas or near the shore. This can cause damage to the boat’s hull and propulsion system.
  3. Capsizing: Capsizing occurs when a boat overturns or flips. This can happen due to rough weather, large waves, or improper weight distribution on the boat. Capsizing can lead to injuries or drowning.
  4. Falls Overboard: Passengers or crew members may accidentally fall overboard, leading to drowning if immediate action is not taken.
  5. Flooding: Boats may experience flooding due to leaks, breaches, or rough weather. Flooding can compromise the vessel’s stability and lead to sinking if not addressed promptly.
  6. Fire and Explosions: Boat engines, fuel systems, or electrical components can catch fire, leading to catastrophic consequences. Explosions may occur in situations where fuel vapors accumulate.
  7. Propeller Accidents: Contact with a boat’s propeller can cause severe injuries or fatalities. This can happen when people are swimming near a boat or during activities like waterskiing.
  8. Weather-Related Incidents: Adverse weather conditions, such as storms, high winds, or lightning, can contribute to accidents at sea. Boats may struggle to navigate through rough waters, leading to various incidents.
  9. Equipment Failures: Malfunctions or failures of essential boat equipment, such as steering systems, navigation systems, or engine failures, can contribute to accidents.
  10. Reckless or Negligent Operation: Operator errors, such as speeding, operating under the influence, or disregarding navigation rules, can lead to accidents on the water.

It’s important for boaters to be aware of safety regulations, follow proper navigation practices, and stay vigilant to minimize the risk of accidents on the water. Additionally, wearing life jackets, maintaining and inspecting equipment regularly, and taking boating safety courses can help enhance overall safety on the water.

It’s important for boaters to follow safety guidelines, receive proper training, and be aware of their surroundings to minimize the risk of accidents on the water. Additionally, knowing how to respond in emergency situations can make a significant difference in preventing accidents from turning into tragedies. If you are considering a bard powerport lawsuit, contact us.