Last week was this year’s National Safe Boating Week. This is perfect timing to raise awareness of this topic, as many put their boats on the water for the first time this year. Before you rush to the lake to kick-off summer, we urge you to know how to be safe while boating and know what your legal rights are if an accident does occur.

Before heading out on the boat this summer, having a general knowledge of boating safety can keep you out of trouble and can keep your boating trip fun.

•Look out for inclement weather. Be mindful to watch the skies when on the water. If weather does change, don’t wait for the storm to “blow over.” Play it safe and get off the water.
•Don’t speed.
•Stay alert as you operate a boat, looking out for people in the water, other boats, buoys and other signs.
•Don’t just have lifejackets for everyone on board, but make sure they fit properly and remember, they only work if you use them. The majority of boating fatalities are from drowning. Of those who drowned, most of them were not wearing a lifejacket.
•Boat operators in Kansas must complete a Boater’s Safety education course and receive a certificate.
•Don’t drink and boat. In Kansas it is illegal to operate a boat while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
•Know the laws of boating in Kansas.

What Are Your Legal Rights?

You may have a claim if you’re injured in a boating accident due to another person’s negligence or recklessness. Negligence is failure to use reasonable care, resulting in damage or injury to another. Failure to have the required safety equipment on your boat can be negligence.

If the operator of a boat is negligent and you suffer an injury, you are entitled to damages. These damages could include: pay of your medical bills, lost earnings, lost earning capacity, and pain and suffering.

Injured While Boating?

If you have been injured in a boating accident, please contact us today for a free consultation. Our personal injury attorneys have over 90 years of combined experience in successful litigation and our do everything possible to assist in your full recovery.