Summer is finally here — and for many Long Islanders, this means it is boating season. Whether you enjoy fishing, jet skiing, or kayaking, it is important to stay safe. Here are a few tips to help you prevent personal injury while boating this summer.
Boating Safety Tips:
- Be Aware of Your Boat Propellers – Always remain alert and aware of your propeller when there are people swimming in the water near your boat, especially in congested areas. Before you start your engine, make sure that no one is in the water near your boat.
- Avoid Drinking and Boating – Unfortunately, about 17% of all recreational boating fatalities are the result of drunk boating. Boating under the influence (BUI) inhibits your judgement and makes it harder to process information, including distance to other boats. Remember to designate a driver if there will be drinking during your trip out on the water.
- Wear a Life Jacket – While it is not mandatory for adults to wear a life jacket, it is important that there are enough life jackets on your boat for every person. Always make sure that kids are wearing life jackets until they are over the age of 12.
- Set Up Your VHF Marine Radio – With a good VHF radio, you will be able to communicate with rescuers — even without cell phone service. The VHF radio will send an automatic mayday call during an emergency, if properly registered, and even connect to your boat’s GPS for greater geographic accuracy.
- Take a Boating Safety Course – Refresh your memory with a boating safety course. This is a great way to hone your skills and improve your boating safety.
While we hope that everyone stays safe this summer, unfortunately, accidents happen. If you experience a boating accident this summer, please contact our office. We can help you collect the damages you need to recover from injuries suffered while water skiing, boating, or operating a personal watercraft.
To schedule a free initial consultation with our attorneys, give us a call at 1.888.GOT.HURT today. Our lines are always open!
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