The summer boating season will be starting up shortly. The weather finally seems to be holding steady, and everyone who has felt trapped indoors is heading out on the water. The beautiful lakes in Georgia are some of the top destinations for locals and tourists. From sunbathers to swimmers, jet skiers to boaters, people will be flocking to the beautiful waterways of the state.
If you will be among those who will be operating a vessel this season, knowing the most common causes for boating accidents in Georgia can help you avoid one.
1. Inattention
Distracted driving on the roads is a huge problem, and it is no different on the water. Make sure your full attention is on the task at hand when you are behind the controls of any type of watercraft. You can’t see what’s under the water, and it may present your greatest danger. You can’t hope to avoid disaster if you are distracted.
2. No Lookout
In all honesty, there will be a moment or two when you take your eyes off the water ahead. There will come a time when you are looking straight, and you miss seeing a hazard that is in your peripheral vision. This is why you need a reliable lookout. There should be a passenger on your boat who is tasked with the job of watching for dangers and hazards you may not see.
3. Inexperience
Operating a boat safely takes experience. The truth of the matter is that you will have to operate a boat multiple times before you become adept at handling all the hazards the water can throw at you. This means that you will be inexperienced for quite some time. Therefore, when you are first starting to practice your boat driving skills, make sure you take extra precaution while you’re behind the wheel.
4. Speeding
It is crucial that you operate your boat at speeds that are safe for both your experience and the conditions of the water. When you operate at a safe speed, you have a better chance at reacting in time to the dangers and hazards that present themselves. Additionally, speeding puts you at a greater risk for colliding with other vessels, break walls and docks.
5. Impairment
It is against the law in Georgia to operate a boat while you are intoxicated. You are considered intoxicated when your blood alcohol content reaches a concentration of 0.08 percent. It is not illegal to have an open container on a vessel, and it is not illegal to have a drink if you are going to be operating the boat. It is illegal to be intoxicated. You will be much safer if you leave the alcohol at home when you plan on operating a watercraft.
If you are involved in a boating accident in Georgia, you might be entitled to financial compensation for your losses. Reach out to our experienced team of attorneys to discover more about your options for retrieving that compensation. We are happy to offer you a free case evaluation, so you can learn more about your legal rights.
