Boating accidents are unfortunately common in Florida, given the large amounts of coastline and bodies of water that making boating a popular activity.  The causes of these boating accidents range, but there are a few that are the most common.  We put together some of the leading causes of death in boating accidents in Florida as well as ways to prevent these accidents from happening.  

Most Common Causes Of Boating Accidents 

Below are the most common causes of boating accidents throughout the United States.  Many of these cause injuries that lead to the person’s death, however, these are the initial reasons that these injuries occur.

Lack of Watch

When operating a boat it is important to always have what is known as a “forward watch” or in other words constant attention to the forward view of the boat.  This is important in order to keep the boat from running into anything that might cause an accident or other boats on the water.  This is a common mistake as boating can be a very relaxing activity, and often times boats that are floating or just coasting with passengers that aren’t paying attention can still run into something or be hit by something causing a deathly crash.

Boat Capsizing

Unfortunately, capsizing is the leading cause of death in boating accidents.  Capsizing is just another word for the boat sinking, and can be caused by a variety of factors.  Inexperienced boaters often anchor the boat incorrectly, which can make it susceptible to capsizing.  Additional factors that can cause a boat to capsize include large gusts of wind, large waves, swells, unforeseen rocks, and so much more.

Falling Overboard

A person falling overboard may seem like an unlikely boating accident, however, it is much more common than most people think.  Despite being good swimmers, many people die accidentally from falling overboard due to factors outside their control.  Rough weather, alcohol consumption, reckless driving of the boat, and more can all cause a person to fall overboard.  Additionally, once overboard there are other dangers that can lead to death including being hit by other boats in the water, being pulled underwater by swells or getting caught in weeds, etc.  

Preventing Boating Accidents

There are many steps you can take to avoid these potentially deadly boating accidents.  First, ensure that the person driving the boat is experienced and knowledgeable on how to operate the boat.  Second, always check weather conditions before going out on the water, regardless of how experienced you may be it is never a good idea to be on the water in poor weather conditions.  Third, make sure there are life jackets for everyone on board, despite the ability to swim.  Lastly, monitor any alcohol use while one board that might impair your judgment or someone else’s while out on the water.  Practicing these behaviors regularly could prevent you or someone else from being the victim of a boating accident.