Bluestein Law Firm, P.A. Attorneys & Counselors At Law

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Bluestein Law Firm, P.A. Attorneys & Counselors At Law

Call Now for a FREE Consultation
Phone: 843-577-3092 | Toll Free: 833-415-0886

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PROVIDING COMPREHENSIVE MARITIME LAW SOLUTIONS

How to prevent a boating vacation from going wrong

On Behalf of | Oct 24, 2018 | Firm News

When people book their vacations in South Carolina destinations like the ever-popular Myrtle Beach, the last thing on their minds is the risk involved with boating accidents. However, these types of accidents are much more common among tourists than most people realize.

One small boating accident can have a lifelong negative impact, especially if you suffer permanent injuries. There are ways to minimize the risk of getting into a dangerous boating crash, however. Here are a few tips you can use as you embark on your South Carolina boating vacation.

Be aware of regulations

There are many watersports opportunities available to vacationers in the Charleston and Myrtle Beach area, but not all visitors know proper watersport safety regulations or follow the rules. One man from Illinois who was vacationing in Myrtle Beach was in a serious boating accident that caused him lifelong injuries. In that accident, the boat was an uninspected passenger vessel not routinely inspected and certified by the U.S. Coast Guard. 

If you decide to rent a jet ski, you must follow all safety guidelines and drive with caution. Reckless behavior on a jet ski is a sure way to increase your chances of having a serious recreational boating accident. The same rule of thumb applies to other rentals, such as banana boats or pontoon boats.

Keep control of your watercraft

Keeping control of your watercraft at all times is an important safeguard against reckless accidents. One surefire way to increase your chances of having a severe accident is to disregard laws prohibiting operating a watercraft while under the influence of alcohol. Boaters who operate recreational watercraft while impaired cannot keep proper control over their vessel. In fact, alcohol is frequently a factor in watersports accidents. For example, if another boater crashes into you because he or she was driving while impaired, this may be grounds for a lawsuit due to the boater’s negligence. If you suffer a serious injury due to another boater’s negligence on the water, you may choose to seek compensation for your injuries. 

Your boating vacation should be a fun experience that provides you with wonderful memories. If you exercise the right amount of caution and follow the rules and regulations governing the use of the watercraft you choose, you can reduce your risk of boating accidents and injuries.