Boating accidents aren’t talked about a lot, but they have the potential to be life-threatening and deadly. During the summer months, many people head out onto the water, and that creates a situation where people could get hurt.
Some people drink and drive their boats, while others may violate other rules or regulations on the water. For instance, someone could lie on the front of a pontoon beyond the safety gate, which could result in him or her being run over if he or she falls off the boat.
Fortunately, the majority of boating outings are safe for the people involved. By not drinking, paying attention and being safe, most people can go out on the water and return safely. That didn’t happen over Labor Day weekend for everyone.
Four people were killed over the Labor Day holiday, according to the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency. These individuals died in boating-related incidents. One case took place on Chickmauga Lake.
It was reported that the other incidents took place on Kentucky and Cherokee Lake. These are still under investigation. With these deaths, the number of fatalities in boating incidents in 2017 rose to 14. In 2016, there were 22 boating-related deaths. Thirteen took place in 2015. It’s been found that Chickamauga Lake is the most dangerous lake in Tennessee, although there is no information on why that might be the case.
Boating accidents are preventable. It’s important that you speak up if you see someone doing something dangerous on the water. Saying something might help prevent an accident and save lives. If you’re hurt, then you can pursue compensation from the negligent party onboard.
Source: News Channel 9, “Four die in holiday boating accidents,” Richard Simms, Sep. 07, 2017
