West Palm Beach Boating Accident Attorney: Summer Boat Safety

According to the U.S. Coast Guard, in 2009, there were 4,730 boating accidents in the United States.  These accidents resulted in 736 deaths and 3,358 injuries; 15% of these accidents occurred in Florida.
 
Most of the fatalities involved drowning; 84% of drowning victims were not wearing a life jacket.  Life jackets are the most effective way to prevent drowning.  You don't know when a Florida boating accident might occur; there may not be time to put on a life jacket.  Everyone on a boat should wear a properly fitted life jacket at all times.
 
More boating safety tips:
 
1. Take an approved boating safety course to learn the rules and laws of safe navigation; 86% of boat accidents involve an operator with no formal training.
2. Take advantage of the Coast Guard's free vessel checks.
3. Always let someone know that you are going out on the water, when you plan to return, and the route you plan to sail.
4. Never use alcohol while boating.  Alcohol is a factor in about 20% of boating accidents. 
5. Check your boat, safety equipment, and fuel levels before leaving. 
6. Watch the weather.  If a storm comes, get off the water.
7. Cell phones don't always work on the water.  Equip your boat with an Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons or place a Personal Locator Beacon on your life jacket.
 
West Palm Beach boating accident attorney Craig Goldenfarb represents victims of Florida boating accidents.  To discuss your claim, contact The Law Offices of Craig Goldenfarb at 800-GOLD-LAW.