The Dangers of Drunk Boaters

Driving a boat while under the influence of drugs or alcohol is not only illegal, it’s inherently risky. Drunk boating accidents are especially dangerous because passengers are typically not wearing a safety belt and the boat can be traveling at high speeds. This is such a widespread issue that the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) has instituted a boat safety campaign to educate boaters on the importance of maintaining control of their craft. Even with a variety of safety course options available, it’s still likely that there will be accidents related to drunk boaters this summer. These accidents can be dangerous or even deadly.

Common Boat Accident Injuries

When you’re out on the water, a mile away from the shore, even a minor injury can become critical. Add alcohol to the mix and the chance of incurring an injury is elevated. One of the biggest issues with a drunk boating injury is that people who are inebriated might not be able to respond correctly or might delay their response. When you’re out on the water, this can make the situation even worse. Common accidents caused by drunk boaters include:

• Broken bones
• Deep lacerations (these are especially common in motorboat accidents)
• Whiplash
• Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
• Spinal cord injuries
• Drowning
• A collapsed lung due to water intake

If you are injured in a boating accident, your first step should be to seek immediate medical attention. Certain injuries might not present symptoms for hours or even days after the accident. For this reason, it’s essential to visit a medical professional who can assess and properly treat your injuries.

An Experienced Personal Injury Lawyer Can Help

If you’ve been injured in a boat accident, you should focus on your physical recovery. Follow doctor’s orders and find the right attorney to help with recovering from the parties at fault. An attorney can bring a claim against a drunk boat operator or any other negligent parties. They can handle communications and negotiations with the insurance company so you don’t settle for less than fair compensation. A personal injury lawyer can also work to collect the necessary documentation to support your case, such as medical records, the official police report, and any applicable witness testimony. If necessary, an attorney can also bring litigation to collect compensation on your behalf.

Call a New Orleans Personal Injury Attorney Today

When you’re in a boating accident, injuries sustained might be just the start of your problems. Expensive medical bills, extended recovery time, and weeks away from your job can add to your stress. At the law office of Egenberg, APLC, our legal team is well-versed in this type of claim, and we are here to support and guide you through this difficult process. Call us today at 504-229-5700 to schedule a free initial consultation. We will review the details of your case and help you determine your best next steps. You can also contact us online.