Being Under The Influence A Common Cause Of Boat Accidents In Naples
Between the open ocean, various inlets, and canals in our area, Naples, Florida is a popular place for boaters. Summer boat traffic peaks over the 4th of July and remains busy throughout the remaining summer and fall seasons. While drinking may seem to add to the fun or help quench your thirst in the heat, boating under the influence poses potentially life-threatening hazards. Our Naples boat accident lawyer wants you to be aware of the risks.
BUI-Related Boating Accidents In Naples
According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission (FWC), over 700 boat accidents happen each year. They claim the lives of roughly ten percent of all victims and leave over 500 others suffering serious personal injuries. Naples is one of the places they most frequently occur and boating under the influence (BUI) is a leading cause.
BUI-related boating accidents tend to spike during the summer and early fall seasons. While having a couple of cold beers or other alcoholic beverages when out on the water may seem like a relatively harmless way to spend the afternoon, it can put you, passengers, and everyone else on or in the water at risk.
Even small amounts of alcohol (or marijuana and other recreational drugs) can cause impairments that make boating accidents in Naples more likely to occur. These include:
- Poor judgment, making you less aware of potential threats and more likely to engage in dangerous behavior;
- Blurred or double vision and increased sensitivity to glare, making it harder to see the water, navigational signs, other boaters, or swimmers in the area;
- Slower reflexes, making you less likely to respond appropriately to sudden and unexpected situations that arise;
- Increased risk of distraction, making crashes and collisions more common.
Be Aware Of Naples BUI Accident Risks
In anticipation of the busy 4th of July holiday and the increase in boaters in the weeks after, local non-profits and law enforcement officials throughout the state are working to raise awareness of Naples BUI accident risks.
According to a July 2024 Naples Daily News report, boaters can expect a heavy presence in terms of patrols, and those who operate a watercraft while under the influence can expect to face serious criminal penalties. They can also be held liable for any injuries others suffer as a result of their reckless behavior. If you or someone you love is hurt, take these steps to protect yourself and your rights to compensation:
- Report any type of boating or swimming accident immediately to law enforcement;
- Make sure an accident report is filed;
- Get the names of the boat owner, operator, and others involved;
- Seek medical care for your injuries, regardless of severity.
Request A Consultation With Our Naples Boat Accident Lawyer
You have the right to hold those at fault accountable when BUI-related boat accidents in Naples happen. At Cardinal Law, P.A., we take the legal actions needed to help you make the maximum recovery. To request a consultation, contact our Naples boat accident lawyer today.
Sources:
myfwc.com/boating/safety-education/accidents/
naplesnews.com/story/news/local/2022/07/01/boaters-alerted-drunken-boating-safety-fourth-of-july-holiday-weekend/7770955001/
