Historical Figures Boat Accidents
Before we look at specific numbers from 2016, we should note that 1973 was actually the most lethal year for boating deaths. Shockingly, around 1,750 people died that year on the water; around nine in every ten of these were a direct result of drowning.
Generally speaking, fatalities have been on a downward trend since the 1970s as vessels have become safer, operators understand the dangers of the water, and safety equipment has also improved. In 2004, we saw a record low and things were looking promising for the near future. However, fatalities started creeping up again in 2005, 2006, and even 2007’s numbers were higher than 2004.
In the same period, the number of accidents and injuries also increased. When 2009 came around, accidents, injuries, and deaths all decreased. Yet, the fluctuation in recent years has been insignificant compared to the fatalities we once saw in the 1970s.
2016 Report – Boat Accidents
In 2016, total property damage reached nearly $50 million and, as has been the case for many years, alcohol proved to be a leading cause of fatalities. Per 100,000 registered recreational vessels, there was an average of 5.9 deaths; this increased from 5.3 the year before.
Despite the improvements in safety over the years, the 2016 report still highlighted some shocking statistics. For example, 80% of deaths came from drowning and around 83% of these failed to wear a lifejacket. Considering the most common vessels for fatalities in this year were kayaks, canoes, and motorboats, this is a scary thought.
Though injuries and fatalities do occur, they can be prevented (or the risk at least can be reduced) by wearing a lifejacket, paying attention, and ensuring the operator has attended a boating safety course. Furthermore, the operator should avoid alcohol and the engine cut-off switch should be attached.
If you need legal advice or assistance after a boat accident, feel free to contact The Injury Firm today to speak to one of our professionals!
