Most avid boaters are surprised to learn that driving a recreational watercraft can be more hazardous than operating a motor vehicle. It can be more of a risk because the waters themselves can be dangerous, plus most operators do not receive sufficient training.
Tennessee state laws and regulations require boat operators behave responsibly when out on the water to avoid causing harm to others. When they occur, boat crashes usually result in severe injuries to those involved and extensive property damages. If someone else’s careless or reckless conduct caused you to sustain injuries, contact an experienced Bartlett boat accident lawyer as soon as possible. One of the dedicated personal injury attorneys at the Law Office of David E. Gordon is prepared to help you seek compensation for your losses.
Common Boat Crash Causes
Most injuries and damages that occur on the waters happen because of negligence. A Bartlett boat crash settlement attorney, like the attorneys at the Law Office of David E. Gordon, can help you seek full financial recovery following an incident. Some of the most common causes of watercraft accidents include:
Passengers or an Operator Falling Overboard
Falling overboard is the most common cause of severe or fatal injuries in boating accidents. It commonly occurs when the boat makes a sharp turn, hits an object, or launches high into the air from wakes.
Boat Operator Inattention
Boaters often have many distractions, including the beautiful scenery around them, other boaters, and their own passengers. Just like driving a car, they must focus on safely operating the watercraft to avoid accidents. A failure to do so could cause a crash with another boat, which often has catastrophic results.
Boating While Under the Influence
For many, boating and alcohol seem to go together to create an enjoyable summer afternoon. However, as with driving a car, operating a boat while under the influence is hazardous for the driver, the passengers, and everyone around them. Boating under the influence or BOA is a significant cause of severe accidents.
Navigational Rule Violations
There are established rules in place in Tennessee to ensure the safety of all boaters, passengers, and everyone else out on the waters. Boaters choosing to ignore the safety laws is a common cause of injuries and property damages.
Negligent Boat Operation in Tennessee
State laws strictly prohibit boaters from operating a vessel in a negligent or hazardous way that could cause physical or financial harm to another person. Examples of negligent activities include:
- Hazardous wake jumping
- Driving the boat into an area where swimmers are present
- Recklessly operating the craft in congested waterways
- Harming or disturbing animals and wildlife
- Playing “chicken” with other boaters or objects
After sustaining injuries or losses from a negligent watercraft operator, reach out to a boat crash injury lawyer in Bartlett for questions on Tennessee boating laws and recovering damages. The attorneys at the Law Office of David E. Gordon can investigate and collect evidence to help build a civil claim for damages.
Schedule a Meeting with a Bartlett Boat Accident Attorney
Boating and spending time out on waterways can be a wonderful experience and provide you with unforgettable memories with your loved ones. However, a fun and exciting day can quickly turn tragic if the boater does not safely operate the water vessel and follow state laws.
When a boater chooses to ignore safety rules resulting in harm to you or a loved one, an experienced boat accident attorney like those at the Law Office of David E. Gordon can hold them financially responsible for the damages they cause. Contact a seasoned Bartlett boat accident lawyer at our firm to schedule a free consultation.
