Tennessee is a state that is rich in having a large number of rivers, lakes and waterways. Boating accidents in the state are consequently a regular occurrence. When a boating accident occurs due to the negligent operation of the boat or another boat involved in a boating accident, a personal injury claim may be made against the negligent party.
Boating accidents in Tennessee and elsewhere are caused by a variety of reasons. In some cases, the cause is rough waters or white water boating. In other instances, the cause may be the inattentiveness or distraction of the operator, which may or may not be created by impairment from alcohol or drugs.
In Tennessee, boating regulation is under the jurisdiction of the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency, which is charged with implementing the state’s Boating Safety Act. The agency collects statistics on boating accidents in the state and enforces the body of safety regulations that exist to prevent boating mishaps. The wearing of life jackets is one requirement that is strongly enforced whenever the authorities are able to do so. The life jacket doesn’t guarantee a positive outcome, but it greatly increases one’s chances to survive until help is provided.
By simply making sure to wear life jackets, Tennessee residents and others can assure a greater chance of minimizing injury or death from a boating accident. Most injuries in boats take place in motor boats, so that operators must be even more vigilant in remaining focused on the operation of the vessel. If a passenger is injured in a boating accident due to someone else’s negligence, it is important to consult with a boating accident attorney for the most accurate and complete assistance in learning how to process a personal injury claim. Maritime rules can be complicated so that it is beneficial to consult with an attorney who is familiar with such claims.
Source: wkbn.com, “Boating accidents come down to basic safety issues“, Julie Bercik, March 21, 2016
