Boating accidents have been on the rise in South Carolina in recent years. In 2012, 111 accidents involving boats occured in South Carolina, while 2017-2019 have each seen upwards of 140 accidents. The upstate of South Carolina is home to Lake Hartwell, Lake Keowee, Lake Jocassee and many more. These lakes amount to hundreds of miles of waterways to enjoy during the summer.
For many, boating and jet skiing is a fun recreational activity enjoyed on the weekends, but boating can also be dangerous. Below are some of the most common causes of boating accidents.
What causes boating accidents?
- The top ten known primary contributing factors for accidents, according to the 2020 Recreational Boating Statistics, are (1) Operator inattention, (2) Operator inexperience, (3) Improper lookout, (4) Excessive speed, (5) Machinery failure, (6) Navigation rules violation, (7) Alcohol use, (8) Weather, (9) Hazardous waters, and (10) Force of wave/wake.
- The top five primary accident types are (1) Collision with recreational vessels, (2) Flooding/swamping, (3) Collision with fixed objects, (4) Grounding, and (5) Falls overboard.
- Of the 534 deaths attributed to drowning in the United States, 450 victims were not wearing a life jacket.
What month has the highest recorded amount of boating accidents?
The summer months have the highest number of boating accidents and boating-related fatalities. This could be attributed to the higher number of boats on the waters as more people enjoy time spent on the US’s lakes, rivers, and oceans.
June saw 921 total accidents, 126 fatalities.
July saw 1115 total accidents,137 fatalities.
August saw 920 total accidents,123 fatalities.
What do I do if I have been injured in a boating accident in Upstate South Carolina?
If you have been injured in a boating accident as a passenger or the operator, you may have grounds to file a claim and recover compensation for your injuries. Our lawyers at ML Lawyers, P.A., will help you determine who might be liable for your injuries, whether the negligent party was in the same vessel as you or another one.
An unexpected injury can incur costly treatment, missed work and possibly other losses, that’s why it’s important to speak to an experienced boat and jet ski accident attorney. Our attorneys are here to give you peace of mind and help you reach a fair resolution to your case on your behalf.
