Ten Safety Tips To Prevent Boating Accident Injuries In Naples
Collier County has the dubious distinction of being one of the top ten most dangerous places in Florida when it comes to boating accidents. Unfortunately, summer is one of the most common times of year for boat accidents in Naples to happen. Our Naples boat accident lawyer shares ten tips to help prevent injuries from impacting you and your passengers.
How To Reduce Collier County Boat Accident Risks
A June 20, 2024 Florida Weekly news report warns about the risks of boating accidents in Collier County. The report claims that while the number of reported cases has declined throughout the state, Collier County is one of ten places where the rate has actually increased. You can reduce the risks by following these tips from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission (FWC):
- Take a boating safety course.
Inexperienced and lack of knowledge regarding boating regulations are common factors in boat accidents in Naples.
- Check your safety gear before heading out.
All vessels are required to have life jackets for all passengers and a whistle or horn in case of emergency. Consider investing in an emergency locator beacon, fire extinguisher, and flares as well.
- Check the weather before your trip.
Monitor weather reports, and do not take your boat out if heavy rain, wind, or high seas are forecasted. If you are on the water and see signs of a storm, head in immediately.
- Know the surroundings.
Talk with others who have been to your destination and familiarize yourself with navigational maps.
- Let others know your itinerary.
Inform friends and family of when you plan on heading out, where you will be boating, and when you expect to get back. You can download a float plan form on the FWC website.
- Wear a life jacket.
Life jackets save lives. Require their use when swimming off the boat and insist children remain in life jackets at all times.
- Pay attention.
Avoid distractions when captaining a boat. Your attention needs to be on the water and your surroundings.
- Avoid drinking.
Many people enjoy having a few drinks while spending a day on the water. However, avoid overdoing it and refrain completely if you are the boat captain or perform other important tasks.
- Report boating violations.
When others engage in reckless and dangerous behavior that increases the risk of boat accidents in Naples, protect yourself and other boaters by reporting it to the authorities.
- Stay with your boat.
If something happens and your boat capsizes, stay with it as long as possible. It can help prevent exhaustion and makes you easier to spot by rescuers.
Request A Consultation With Our Naples Boat Accident Lawyer
At Cardinal Law, P.A., we help victims of boat accidents in Naples get the compensation they need to recover in a claim. To protect your rights, contact our office and request a consultation with our Naples boat accident lawyer today.
Sources:
naples.floridaweekly.com/articles/coast-guard-boating-accidents-death-rate-declines-but-collier-in-top-10/
myfwc.com/boating/safety-education/safety-tips/
