Wisconsin borders the first and fourth largest freshwater lakes in the world and has more lakes, and navigable riverways within and along its borders than almost every other state. As a result, Wisconsin has a high number of boating accidents each year. Although there is less chance of being involved in a boat accident than a car accident, boat accidents do happen.
Boating accidents can lead to many severe, life-changing injuries, including:
- Brain injuries
- Broken bones and amputation
- Neck and back injuries
- Paralysis
- Permanent disabilitie
- Wrongful death and drowning
A boating accident can turn any clear sunny day into a dark and deadly nightmare. The water can be a dangerous place. Therefore, all boat operators must practice with extreme care and caution when behind the wheel.
A Few Causes of Boating Accidents
Boating accidents or injuries can occur because of:
- Boats tipping or capsizing
- Drinking and Boating (BWI)
- Lack of experience/licensing to drive a boat
- Manufacture defects
- Mechanical defects
- Careless operation
- No life jackets on board
- Operating with persons on the bow, deck, or gunwale
- Overloading
- Poor navigation
- Reckless driving and speeding
- Skiing and towing
According to the Wisconsin DNR, boat operators have the responsibility to drive in a “reasonable and prudent” manner. People can lawfully swim at night without any lighting. Piers doesn’t have to be lit. Boaters need to travel slowly and avoid drifting too close to shore. The responsibility to avoid hitting something in or on the water rests with the boat operator.
Contact Us for a FREE Consultation With One of Our Boating Accident Attorneys
Our personal injury lawyers have been zealously representing boating accident victims for decades. We can provide you with the emotional support and legal services you need during this difficult time. We will sit down with you and provide you with options to help you gain the recovery you deserve. For a FREE, no-obligation consultation with one of our personal injury attorneys at Doar, Drill & Skow, call 877-630-3062 toll-free or contact us online. Located in New Richmond, we serve clients throughout Wisconsin and eastern Minnesota.
