Boat Accident Attorney in Jackson

In 2015, the U.S. Coast Guard recorded 4,158 reported recreational boating accidents that killed 626 and injured 2,613 people. Though injuries went down compared to 2014, deaths and accidents increased. Common accidents cited include:

• Drowning or near drowning
• Propeller accidents
• Collisions between two boats
• Skiing-related spinal cord injuries
• Swimmer run over by boater
• Onboard slip and fall head injuries

Boaters often act more recklessly while operating a boat than they would a car. Yet, the top causes of boating accidents in Jackson are similar to auto accidents, including:

• Boating while drunk — Alcohol is the leading factor in 21 percent of boating deaths. Operating a boat with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08 is illegal, and violators who cause injuries should be held accountable to their victims.
• Distracted boating — A distracted boater may not see a swimmer, a downed skier or a dive flag. They are also more likely to lose control of the watercraft and crash into a dock or a sandbar, or be tossed by a large wake.
• Speeding boaters — The open water often tempts boaters to increase the throttle. However, speeding boaters are at higher risk of crashing or hitting a person in the water.
• Inexperienced boaters — Mississippians are permitted to operate a boat long before they are allowed to drive. In fact, the only restriction on children under 12 is that an adult who is at least 21 years old must accompany them. Laws now require a boater education class, but the requirement is waived for many older adults who were grandfathered in, allowing inexperienced boaters to create a risk on the water.

Morgan & Morgan protects your rights after a boating accident. Our experienced Jackson boat accident attorneys are ready to discuss your rights and options for recovery. Schedule a free case evaluation today.