Nothing ruins a beautiful day on the Ohio River faster than a boating accident. Sadly, you can end up in a devastating collision, even if you follow all boating regulations, because you cannot rely on others to do the same.

If you were injured in an accident with a drunk or reckless boater, turn to Jeremy L. Clark Attorney at Law in Catlettsburg, KY, to recover the compensation you deserve. As seasoned personal injury lawyers, they will help you secure a fair settlement for the damages you incurred.

A Personal Injury Lawyer Shares 7 Tips for Avoiding Boat Accidents

1. Maintain a Safe Speed at All Times

You should never travel so fast that you cannot maintain control of the vessel. Speeding is one of the primary causes of boating accidents, so play it safe by traveling at a speed that allows you to assess your surroundings and react to any hazards as needed.

2. Adjust Your Speed for the Conditions

When the waters are rough, there is a lot of congestion, or the sun has gone down, you will need to travel even more slowly than normal. Speeding at night is especially dangerous, even if you have adequate lighting on the vessel.

3. Check the Weather

The skies may be sunny and clear when you depart, but do you know the forecast for when you plan on returning? Check the weather for the entire length of your trip to ensure you do not get caught in dangerous conditions. If you have any doubts at all, stay on shore, and take out your boat on another day.

4. Maintain a Lookout

Designate a lookout who will take the position seriously at all times. When collisions occur, one of the parties typically claims they did not see the other one coming. You can prevent such accidents by remaining aware of your surroundings.

5. Wear a Life Jacket

Life jackets may not help prevent a collision, but they could save your life in the event of one. Make sure everyone on board has an appropriate life jacket before you set out for the day.

6. Don’t Drink & Boat

Drinking and boating is just as dangerous as drinking and driving. If you and your friends want to have a few drinks, make sure you designate a captain, who will stay sober all day long.

7. Know the Boat

The Ohio River can be incredibly congested in the summertime. If you cannot maneuver your boat safely between everyone else, a personal injury lawyer knows a collision could result. Make sure you know how to steer and control the boat before actually taking it on a long trip.

If you sustained injuries in a boating accident, you may be eligible to recover compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Turn to a personal injury attorney from Jeremy L. Clark Attorney at Law to discuss the circumstances of your case. You can learn more about the quality legal advice this firm provides by visiting their website or calling (606) 739-6774.