Savannah Boat Accident Lawyer

Many Georgia residents and visitors enjoy spending time on the water, whether recreational boating, swimming, and fishing. That is particularly true during the hot summer months, and state waterways are not uncommon to be bustling.

Unfortunately, water vessel congestion increases the risk of accidents, and the consequences can be severe. If you sustained injuries and other losses because of someone else’s recklessness, a dedicated personal injury attorney could help you seek compensation. Contact a Savannah boat accident lawyer today to schedule a consultation.

Common Boat Accident and Injury Causes

Some examples of common boat accidents and injury causes include the following:

• Improper lookout
• Operator inexperience or distractions
• Defective mechanical parts or safety gear
• Speeding, reckless, or aggressive operation
• Poor weather leads to hazardous water conditions
• Boating while under the influence of drugs or alcohol
• Failure to adhere to the navigation rules and regulations
• Failing to maintain the watercraft as necessary to ensure it is safe for the water

A Savannah boat collision attorney could investigate and conduct a thorough analysis to determine the cause and responsible party.

Recreational Boating in Georgia

Recreational watercraft operators in the state must understand the legal requirements and regulations for safe and responsible boating. The Georgia Department of Natural Resources governs boating regulations and includes requirements for boater education courses for anyone born after January 1, 1998, for anyone operating motorized water vessels.

After completion, they must pass a Department of Natural Resources or DNR test and obtain a boater education card. Operators required to carry the cards must have them with them at all times while on state waterways. Further, anyone under 12 may not operate a personal watercraft or vessel over 16 feet long unless an adult accompanies them. However, they may operate vessels under 16 feet in length as long as the engine has less than 30 horsepower.

Safety Equipment and Other Requirements

All recreational boats must have enough U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets for everyone on board, and children under ten must wear their life jackets until the vessel returns to shore. All boats must also have and use navigation lights while boating between sunset and sunrise. Finally, state laws prohibit anyone from boating while intoxicated, and an arrest will lead to harsh consequences.

Reckless and Unlawful Operation

State boating rules also prohibit the following boating actions:

• Skiing close to areas with swimmers
• Wake jumping is hazardous, placing the boater and those around them at unnecessary risk of harm
• Navigate within 100 feet or less of other water vessels
• Speeding above posted waterway speed limits

While not a legal requirement for those born before January 1, 1998, inexperience is a substantial cause of severe waterway crashes. State lawmakers and the Coast Guard highly suggest that every new boater complete an education course before entering the water. A lawyer in Savannah could review boating rules and regulations and answer specific questions during your appointment.

Contact a Proficient Boat Accident Attorney in Savannah

Recreational boating is a favorite pastime for many in Georgia and throughout the country. While it can provide countless fun memories with friends and family, it can also be dangerous. That is particularly true when boaters and passengers are reckless. One mistake could quickly turn a fun and relaxing day on the water into a tragic and life-altering event.

If you sustained bodily harm and other losses on a state waterway because of someone else’s negligence, you have every right to seek a payout from the liable party. Call a hard-working and qualified Savannah boat accident lawyer today to schedule an appointment and prepare your claim.