Florida’s warm climate and abundant waterways make it a year-round destination for boating. Unfortunately, the state also has the highest number of boating accidents in the country, and many result in fatalities. If your loved one has passed away in a boating accident, a boating accident lawyer in Fort Myers will help you understand the most common causes can help you recognize when negligence may have played a role.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) tracks these incidents every year, revealing troubling patterns in how and why fatal boating accidents happen:
Operator Inattention and Improper Lookout
One of the top causes of fatal boating accidents in Florida is operator inattention. Just like distracted driving on the road, losing focus on the water can have deadly consequences.
Some common distractions for boat operators include:
- Talking with passengers instead of watching for hazards
- Using a cell phone or other electronic device
- Focusing on fishing or other recreational activities instead of navigation
Conditions can change quickly on the water, regardless of visibility levels. Florida law requires operators to maintain a proper lookout at all times to avoid collisions and other dangers.
Alcohol and Drug Use
Boating under the influence is illegal in Florida, yet it remains a leading factor in fatal accidents. Alcohol and certain drugs impair judgment, slow reaction times, and make it harder to operate a vessel safely.
The effects of alcohol can be magnified on the water because of things like sun exposure and movement. These conditions can cause “boater’s fatigue,” which already reduces coordination and awareness. When alcohol is added to the mix, the risk of a deadly crash rises significantly.
Excessive Speed
Many fatal boating accidents occur because operators are traveling too fast for the conditions. For instance, high speeds reduce the time a captain has to react to obstacles or sudden changes in weather. In shallow waters or crowded areas, speeding can also make collisions and capsizing more likely.
Florida boating laws set speed restrictions in certain zones, such as manatee protection areas, harbors, and narrow channels. Ignoring these limits can lead to catastrophic consequences.
Weather and Hazardous Water Conditions
While no one can control the weather, safe boating requires paying close attention to forecasts and water conditions. Many fatal accidents happen when operators ignore warnings or are not adequately prepared.
Wind, waves, and reduced visibility can make navigation more difficult, even for experienced boaters. Sudden changes in conditions are common in Florida, and failing to prepare for them can put everyone on board at risk.
Equipment Failures and Lack of Safety Gear
Some deadly accidents result from mechanical problems, such as engine failure or steering malfunctions. While some failures are unavoidable, many can be prevented through proper maintenance and inspections.
Another frequent factor in fatal boating accidents is the lack of proper safety gear, such as life jackets. The FWC reports that the majority of drowning victims were not wearing a personal flotation device at the time of the accident.
Contact a Florida Boating Accident Lawyer for a Free Consultation
Fatal boating accidents are often preventable tragedies. When they happen because of negligence, the loss is even harder to accept. If your family is grieving the death of a loved one in an accident, you deserve all of the compensation that may be available to you under the law.
A compassionate Fort Myers wrongful death attorney with our team can review the facts and circumstances of your case and pursue a wrongful death claim on your behalf if possible.
Contact Garvin Injury Law today to schedule a free consultation.