Going on a boating adventure is a way that some people choose to relax. Some people get in the boat to fish and others to just explore a body of water. Despite the seeming tranquility of going boating, it is still important for operators of boats to ensure that they are doing what is necessary to keep others in the boat safe. A recent Tennessee boating accident shows that boating accidents can involve serious injuries.
The accident happened when an 18-foot boat ran aground by Toqua Campground. WBIR is reporting that the boat was going at a high rate of speed when it ran aground. The boat came to rest approximately 40 feet from the shoreline when it slammed into a tree, according to the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency.
Investigators are still trying to determine exactly what happened. As is standard in serious boating accidents, a blood test for alcohol and drug use was done.
Three men were injured in this accident. Two men were taken from the scene by Lifestar. The other man was taken via ground transport. While a 33-year-old man and a 29-year-old man have been released from UT Medical Center, a 22-year-old man remains there in critical condition.
Keeping passengers on a boat safe by following all maritime laws and state laws governing watercraft is necessary for all boat operators. Anyone who has been injured in a boating accident caused by the dangerous actions of someone else has the right to seek compensation for those injuries. Claims for medical bills, lost wages and similar damages are some that the victim of a boating accident might need to explore.
Source: The Advocate & Democrat, “Three hurt in boat accident” Jessica Cross, Jun. 25, 2014
