Boating Safely – Boat Accident Attorneys
Boating can be a refreshing way to enjoy Colorado’s beautiful weather. However, safety should always come first. Whether you’re fishing on the lake, tubing and water skiing, or paddling down the river, accidents can happen in an instant. Because of this, it is crucial to understand the basics of boat safety and who can be held responsible in an accident to protect yourself and others while on the water.
At Mintz Law Firm, we understand the unique challenges that victims of boating accidents face. With decades of experience helping clients throughout Colorado, we are committed to providing caring and personalized legal support. Our team works relentlessly to hold negligent parties accountable and secure the compensation you deserve.
Key Boating Safety Practices Everyone Should Follow
While not all boat accidents can be avoided, many can be prevented with responsible safety practices. Injuries can occur from a broad range of accidents, including operator error, alcohol use, faulty equipment, hazardous conditions, and excessive speeds.
Following some simple safety guidelines set out by Colorado’s Boating Safety Program can help prevent some of these accidents and keep everyone safe while enjoying the water. Some important things to keep in mind while boating include:
Using Approved Safety Equipment
The U.S. Coast Guard requires all boats to have the following safety equipment available on board:
- A horn, whistle, or airhorn
- An up-to-date and usable fire extinguisher
- A throwable flotation device for boats over 16 feet
In addition, Colorado requires a life jacket for each passenger on the boat. Children under the age of 12 must wear their life vests at all times unless they are inside of a cabin or below deck. Failure to follow these laws may result in a fine, jail time, or loss of boating privileges.
Taking A Boater Safety Course
As of June 1st, 2024, anyone between the ages of 14 and 18 must take an approved boating safety course before operating a watercraft. This includes all personal watercraft, such as jet skis and sea-doos. It is also recommended that anyone over 18 take an online boating safety course to stay up to date on the best practices for operating a boat in Colorado.
Keeping Up With Inspections
Colorado boat patrol officers will conduct safety inspections while out on the water to verify that you are following all rules and regulations. Courtesy inspections are also offered at many boat ramps to ensure a safe and fun boating experience.
At Mintz Law Firm, we believe that following proper boating safety practices is essential to protecting yourself and your loved ones while enjoying Colorado’s lakes. If an accident occurs, we are here to support you in filing a personal injury claim and securing compensation for your injuries.
Steps to Take After a Boating Accident
If you have been in a boating accident as a result of someone else’s negligence, you may feel overwhelmed about your next steps forward. Your first priority should be ensuring everyone is safe and receiving medical attention for their injuries. No matter how minor, you should always seek medical attention following an accident to protect your safety and create an official connection between your injuries and the boating accident.
If you are physically able, you should also collect evidence that can help strengthen your personal injury case. Photos and videos of the accident scene, witness statements, and a police report are all essential in providing liability and building a strong case against the person who caused the accident.
A personal injury attorney can be a valuable asset in gathering all of this evidence and using their resources to investigate and collect official documentation that may not be available to you if you choose to go through the legal process alone. A personal injury attorney can also negotiate with insurance companies for you to ensure they are not offering a settlement that minimizes their payout.
If you have been injured in a boating accident, please contact Mintz Law Firm today to discuss your case and get started on securing the financial compensation you deserve.
How Mintz Law Firm Can Help After Your Boat Accident
At Mintz Law Firm, we know how devastating boating accidents can be, impacting your physical, emotional, and financial well-being. Navigating the aftermath of a boating accident can be overwhelming, especially when you’re dealing with injuries and mounting medical bills. That’s where we come in.
Our dedicated team works tirelessly to investigate the details of your case, determine liability, and gather the evidence needed to build a strong claim. We’ll help you navigate negotiations with insurance companies and ensure you’re not pressured into accepting an unfair settlement. With decades of experience serving boating accident victims across Colorado, we are here to support you every step of the way. Contact us today at (303) 462-2999 or visit our contact form to start your path toward recovery.