Boating is a common professional activity and pastime in Florida. Countless people head out onto the water to perform job functions or relax on the weekends. Most people who own boats or rent vessels go out on the water and return without incident.
However, collisions and other boating incidents can have major consequences for the boaters and passengers involved. Given the number of people who come to Florida specifically for aquatic recreation and the number of maritime industries that operate in the state, most people might recognize that the risk of a boating incident is higher in the Sunshine State than in many other locations. Still, they may not realize just how high the risk actually is.
Boating incidents are a daily occurrence
Many factors contribute to boating incidents in Florida. For example, there has been a significant increase in boat traffic over the last five years. The regions close to the Gulf, for example, have seen a significant increase in overall boat traffic and also boating incidents. 2024 saw an increase in overall boating fatalities reported in Florida, although final federal statistics were not yet available for 2024 at the time of this blog post’s publication.
According to the United States Coast Guard, 10% of all vessel incidents in 2023 took place near Florida. That is the highest rate in the country. California took second place on the list with just 5% of reported incidents. Every year, there are hundreds of boating incidents in the waters around Florida, which lead to dozens of deaths.
How can boaters protect themselves?
Here are a few tips for boaters to protect themselves and reduce the risk of accidents:
- Be proactive about vessel maintenance and vet companies before renting boats and other vessels
- Ensure there are adequate personal flotation devices and other safety equipment on board before departing
- Leave plenty of room for other vessels and spaces used by swimmers
Crucially, those operating boats and vessels must abstain from alcohol and drugs, and refrain from distracted driving. Even without opposing traffic, distraction when operating a vessel can have devastating consequences.
If a boating accident occurs, the victims involved may have the right to hold outside parties accountable. Vessel operators and owners are among those who may be liable for preventable maritime incidents. Speaking with a personal injury attorney can help injury victims recoup their losses when time out on the open water leads to serious injuries or worse as a result of preventable harm.