As the operator of a boat, the driver of the craft is commonly referred to as the ‘master of the ship’ and is responsible for the safety of his passengers on-board and those in tow on water skis or tubes. While the ‘master of the ship’ phrase be be truthful in a significant number of situations, relying simply on a phrase or even common sense is rarely enough to successfully prove boating injury cases to an insurance company or jury. Like many fields outside of the knowledge of an average person, expert witnesses can be incredibly useful in: providing background on a particular activity, explaining the responsibility of the party being sued and applying relevant laws and codes to the specific situation. When representing people who have sustained serious injuries while boating or tubing, I always use an expert in the field of boating and water safety to review the… Continue Reading
Category Archives: Boating Accidents
Subscribe to Boating Accidents RSS FeedBoating Safety: Prevention Of Childhood Injuries While Boating, Tubing & Swimming
Posted in Boating Accidents, Swimming Pool DrowningsBoating, tubing, and other water sports and activities can provide fun and enjoyment for families when the weather is warm. However, these pleasurable activities can also be dangerous for young children, resulting in injury or even death. Statistics from the U.S. Coast Guard, injuries and property damages related to boating accidents can not be ignored: In 2009, there were 4,370 boating accidents causing 3,358 injuries and 736 deaths and $36 million in damages to property. 86% of boating accident deaths involved boat operator did not have any boat safety instruction or course. Nearly 75% of all boating fatalities were caused by drowning, and 84% were not wearing a life jacket. Children under 13 years old accounted for 18 boating deaths in 2009. Half of the children who died in 2009 died by drowning, and only 44% were wearing life jackets even though they are required to wear them. … Continue Reading