In many instances, people experience a bit of cabin fever during colder months. Not everyone, after all, is particularly fond of 0°, snow, ice, and the cold weather activities that can go along with that type of weather – i.e., snowboarding, skiing, snowmobiling, ice fishing, etc. Once the weather starts to warm up, however, people begin looking forward to summer activities. Many of the activities that people enjoy during the summer months revolve around bodies of water or pools. Unfortunately, water sports present their own set of risks where injury is concerned.
Every year, summer weather water sports injuries sideline both young and old. It’s no surprise, really, considering that parasailing, waterskiing, speedboats, jet skis, and more involve relatively high speeds or some element of danger. Hitting the water when going that fast can feel like running into concrete! Naturally, actual “sports” that involve games and competition can be hazardous, as well.
Accident Statistics – Water Sports and Boating
In the United States, the fifth leading cause of accidental death is unintentional drowning. Related to this kind of incident, here are some frightening statistics:
- Vessels under 21 feet in length were associated with 7/10 victims of drowning.
- Failure to wear a life jacket – 85% of drowning injury victims did not have on a personal flotation device.
- As a result of boating accidents with recreational vehicles, 3000 injuries and 651 deaths were reported in 2012.
- You are 25% more likely, if you’re renting a wave runner (also referred to as PWC), to experience an accident than is an actual wave runner owner.
- Where PWC accidents are concerned, responsible for 96% are speeding and inexperience.
- After only four minutes of oxygen deprivation, brain cells begin to die off.
- Special follow-up care is required for at least half of emergency room-treated drowning injury victims.
- Of all annual drowning victims, one in five are children 14 years of age or less.
Tips for Water Sports Safety
To help reduce injuries resulting from water sports, safety standard adherence, education, and training are recommended. If you have recently purchased a PWC, or are renting one (or a kayak), to prevent serious drowning accidents, a few basic precautions should be implemented.
Here are some recommendations on ways to stay safer during summer watersports:
- Avoid alcohol consumption if you plan on operating a water vessel. (While under the influence of alcohol, it is against the law to operate a water vessel, just like it is to operate a motor vehicle under the influence.)
- Never go out by yourself. Bring a friend if you’re planning on using a PWC, kayaking, boating, swimming, etc. If you’re going sailing, make sure that your “sail plan” has been filed with someone.
- Always – without exception – use a PFD (personal flotation device)/lifejacket.
- Know how to swim. Even if you’re wearing a life jacket, the skill of swimming should not be underrated nor ignored if you’re planning to play in the water.
Summer Injuries – Too Hot to Handle Your Own!
Unfortunately, summer weather water sports injuries aren’t uncommon. If you have been hurt while enjoying a warm weather activity, do not hesitate to seek the assistance of our highly competent, knowledgeable attorneys at Corradino and Papa, LLC. You may be entitled to compensation, particularly if the negligence of someone else resulted in your being injured. Contact us today for a free consultation.
Disclaimer: Results may vary depending on your particular facts and legal circumstances.