Recreational boating statistics can be found on the US Coast Guard website and serve as a grim reminder of the dangers of recreational boating, including jet skis, wave runners, kayaks, canoes and pontoon boats.
An at a glance look at the statistics provides one conclusion, that most recreational boating deaths are caused by drowning, but when we further examine the numbers, we find that when personal watercrafts or PWCs are involved, drowning is not the leading circumstance in victims’ injuries or deaths.
PWCs are recreational watercraft designed so that the rider sits or stands on top of and not inside the boat. Because of this they are often called water scooters.
Only 13 of the 36 deaths in 2013 were caused by drowning. The Coast Guard lists the remaining 23 as “other”.
Other causes for recreational boating accidents include:
- collision with another boat
- collision with a fixed object
- alcohol use
- operator inattention
- machinery failure
- navigation rules violation
- excessive speed
Some problems specific to jet skis and waverunners:
- Low Visibility – PWCs are able to operate in shallow water because of their design, but unfortunately this feature makes them difficult to be seen by other boaters.
- Unpredictable Path- PWCs are nimble and fast. This makes their heading unpredictable to other boaters and may result in a collision.
- Handling-When a PWC stalls, the ability to steer the vessel is also lost. Simply cutting the engine will not help riders avoid a crash.
Do I Need a License to Operate a Waverunner or Jet Ski in Virginia? To find the answer click here. Certification requirements vary from state to state.
If you or a loved one has been injured or killed in a boating accident, call The Thomson Law Firm for a FREE consultation today. (540) 777-4900
