‘My escape is to just get in the boat and disappear on the water’- Carl Hiaasen.
Are you a water child? Is going to the water adventure park your jam? Do you love boating? If yes, then we are glad that you are living your life to the fullest. However, sometimes things don’t work out as planned. Unpredictability is a vital element of life. And, this unpredictability usually has negative outcomes, in simple terms known as accidents.
You must be wondering- Why did we suddenly start talking about the uncertainties of life and accidents? The answer to this question is the following data that we have collected.
According to the report of Statista, ‘in 2019, 2559 people got injured, and 613 people died due to boating accidents. There was a reported loss of 55 million dollars (property damage) in the U.S.’
Boating incidents are on the rise, and that’s definitely not good news, especially for the people who wait for the summers to go boating with their family and friends (you). Although we pray you never encounter such an accident, it is still better to be prepared in advance.
These incidents are sudden and devastating. Moreover, you need to be quick so that you can protect yourself. Otherwise, you can get severe injuries. That’s why we will teach you about the immediate measures that you can take to protect yourself in such situations.
Safety is the priority
Wherever you go boating, make sure that you have all the safety gear. Generally, it includes life jackets, floating devices, wearable PFD, and a first aid kit. So that you can save yourself and your family from drowning. Call for emergency assistance as soon as possible. You should also make sure that your boat is safe as well. There is no point going out on the water on a boat that has rusted screws and messed up electronics. Doing a thorough check of your boat will show you if there are any issues. You can then go online and buy a 316ss Button Socket Screw, for example, or new wiring, so it can be fitted before you take to the water. Don't be the reason you have an accident in the first place.
Report the accidents to Coast Guard
The next step is to contact the coast guard and report them about the accident. Make sure to be clear with the details of casualties, persons involved, location, severe injury cases, etc. It will help them in understanding what resource they require for your help. Also, don’t move from the location as it might create trouble for the coast guard.
Contact your lawyer
Once you are back on the land and have taken medical attention. Contact your lawyer. Why? Usually, these incidents are a result of the negligence of your operator. That’s why you are eligible for the compensation. But, the operator may deny his/her fault. So the professionals at Krlawgroup.com recommend talking to your attorney. They can protect your rights by helping in recovering the compensation for personal injury.
Collect the evidence for the insurance claim
Finally, collect the evidence that can help you and your lawyer with the insurance claim and compensation. You should try taking pictures of the boat and the weather before you start. Collect information (Name, address, telephone number, id number, etc.) from the people, boat owners (if two boats were involved, then collect information from both).
To sum it all up!
Boating is indeed a fun activity. But you can never compromise safety for your fun. That’s why it is beneficial to stay cautious and well-informed. So that if you ever encounter an accident, you are aware of what needs to be done and whom to contact for your safety.