Some studies estimate that alcohol is involved in 25 percent of all motorboat-related deaths, depending on the year. While employing a designated driver may help avoid alcohol-related auto accidents, it does not provide the same benefit with boating accidents because drunken passengers are at risk of falling overboard and drowning. Drunken boat drivers and passengers can cause catastrophic injuries to multiple parties, and may be charged with boating under the influence if they are caught.
Many are hurt each year in boating accidents, and alcohol plays a large role in injuries sustained on the water. According to a report released by the United States Coastal Guard on recreational boating statistics, alcohol use was the sixth-leading contributing factor of injuries in 2012, after operator inattention, operator inexperience, excessive speed, improper lookout and navigation rules violations. The report also showed it was the largest leading factor of 17 percent of boating accident deaths in 2012.
Common injuries sustained during boating accidents include broken bones, concussions, hypothermia and internal organ injuries. Amputations, spinal cord injuries and burns happen much less often, but still occur. Such injuries can be costly, and may result in time away from work and loss of quality of life.
It is recommended that you consult with an experienced San Diego boating accident lawyer today if you have been injured as a result of a boating accident where alcohol was involved. Intoxication on the part of any party may impact the outcome of your lawsuit, and a lawyer can help determine liability.