San Francisco Boat Accidents

People who think of boating often associate the hobby with fun, sun and recreation.  They may also assume that boats are less dangerous than other types of motor vehicles because these vessels are operated on the water.  However, just like driving a car, operating a boat can be quite dangerous.  This is especially true if the people operating boats are negligent or reckless.  When boat operators are not careful, they may cause boating accidents that leave people with deadly injuries or cause people to drown.

There are several different types of boating accidents.  Some of the most common boat accidents involve:  yachts, sail boats, cruise ships, jet skis, cruiser boats, speed boats, river boats and military vessels.  Regardless of what type of watercraft is involved, anytime a boating accident occurs, people's lives may be placed in jeopardy.

Boat Accident Statistics & Facts

During all fatal boating accidents, 66% of deaths involved drowning.  In most cases, people that drowned were not wearing life jackets, which may have saved their lives.  In 2008, there were 12,692,892 boats registered in the United States.  Anytime there is a high volume of boats on the water, the chances of boating accidents occurring increases if boat operators are reckless.  The leading cause of fatal boating accidents is the consumption of alcohol.  All too often, boat operators think that it is acceptable to boat under the influence (BUI).  Yet, in the state of California, boating under the influence is a serious crime that can result in criminal charges if people are caught by law enforcement.  Another leading cause of serious boating accidents is operator negligence.  Anytime boaters act recklessly, they can cause boat accidents that destroy the lives of innocent people for years to come.

San Francisco Boat Accident Attorneys

When it comes to motor vehicle accidents, every case is unique and involves its own set of damages, losses and hardships.  If you would like to discuss your case with a skilled San Francisco boat accident lawyer, contact our firm today!