Boating is a fun way to spend time relaxing on the water. However, you should stay vigilant about certain precautions to avoid any personal injury issues. The following guide will help you and your friends stay safe on your boat.

Your Guide to Boat Safety

1. Don't Drink & Sail

Half of all boating accidents involve drugs or alcohol, with 800 lives lost and 60,000 non-fatal accidents in the United States each year. As such, Virginia law sees drinking and boating as a crime. Boating under the Influence (BUI) carries a maximum penalty of a year in jail and $2,500 in fines.

2. Have Proper Safety Gear

Having the right protective gear ensures the safety of everyone onboard. Make sure you have enough life jackets for all passengers. You should also carry life preservers, ropes, a flashlight, a fire extinguisher, and whistles to help you summon assistance in an emergency.

Keep a first aid kit on hand to address any personal injury issues. Make sure it contains bandages, adhesive tape, antiseptic, splints, and motion sickness bags.

3. Check the Weather

Weather is unpredictable. A calm, sunny day can turn surprisingly volatile, possibly leaving you stranded in the water. Always check the weather report before leaving shore and keep a radio with you tuned to an emergency weather station. If the weather promises to be rough, head to shore immediately to prevent being caught in a storm.

If you've been in a boat accident and need to file a personal injury claim, contact Crandall & Katt, Attorneys at Law in Roanoke, VA. They have served Southwest Virginia since 1979 and specialize in car accidents, tractor-trailer accidents, wrongful death suits, and other negligent and intentional torts cases. Visit their website to read what their clients have to say about them or call (540) 342-2000 to arrange a consultation with a personal injury lawyer.