Florida’s summer sun and overall atmosphere beckon many to its waters, both residents and tourists alike. Boating explodes in popularity and becomes the pursuit of choice for those in Florida who love exploring nature. Yet, with the thrill of the waves comes hidden dangers. Summer boating, especially during peak hours, is much more dangerous than most understand. Today, we will take a closer look at the dangers you might face on the water and how an attorney can help should an accident take place.

The Risks of Boating in Florida

Summer boating in Florida might seem like the perfect way to spend a sunny day, but it’s not without significant risks. Each year, Florida ranks at the top for recreational boating accidents in the United States. With so much water to explore and such beautiful sights, Florida boaters need to prepare before going out on the water to limit the risks they face and enjoy the day without any drawbacks.

The beautiful weather and inviting waters draw both novice and experienced boaters, creating a bustling and often unpredictable marine environment. Many of these accidents are due to preventable issues, such as navigating without proper training or understanding of the local waterways.

Collisions occur not just between boats but also between swimmers, jet skis, and stationary objects like docks or navigation buoys. Any accident on the water can result in injuries ranging from minor to severe, from cuts and bruises to spinal injuries or drowning.

4 Leading Causes of Summer Boating Accidents

A deeper dive into the causes of boating accidents in Florida reveals several reasons that contribute to the high incidence rate:

Alcohol Impairment: Boating under the influence of alcohol is illegal. Still, this doesn’t stop it from being one of the state’s top contributors to boating accidents. Alcohol impairs judgment, coordination, and reaction times, increasing the risk of mishaps on the water.
Lack of Experience: Many boaters in Florida waters are inexperienced and unfamiliar with boating safety norms. Tourists who come to the state for the sights and atmosphere will not be as knowledgeable as local boaters.
Distractions: Just like on the roads, distractions can be deadly on the water. Operating a boat requires full attention and distractions—whether from electronic devices, other passengers, or activities on board—can lead to accidents.
Poor Condition of Vessels: In Florida, the combination of a salty marine environment and high usage wears on vessels. Boats not adequately maintained and safeguarded from salt and weather conditions are more likely to experience mechanical failures and lose control on the water.

Challenges with Summer Boating Regulations

Florida’s approach to boating licenses and regulations often exacerbates the potential for accidents. Unlike driving a car, where rigorous testing and licensing are required, the barriers to entry for boating are surprisingly low.

For example, Florida does not require a boating license for individuals over the age of 30, relying instead on an online boater safety course that can be completed quickly. There is no practical boating test required to operate a boat in Florida legally. This minimal requirement does not adequately prepare new boaters for the practical challenges they will face on the water. (Click to read Florida Statutes regarding Boating)

In addition, tourists with boating licenses from other states can operate vessels in Florida waters without additional checks. This policy assumes that all states have equivalent safety standards, which is not always the case, leading to varied skill levels among boaters. The difference between boating on a calm lake and taking a boat out into the Gulf can be huge.

When a summer boating outing ends in an accident, your next step after ensuring the safety and health of those involved should be contacting a personal injury attorney. An experienced attorney will help to navigate through the upcoming process of filing with insurance or pursuing a personal injury lawsuit. If someone injures you or a family member due to negligence or failure to learn how to boat safely in Florida, you have the right to seek compensation. Contact Probinsky and Cole today to get the guidance you need to secure the best possible outcome for you and your loved ones.