Boats & Personal Watercraft: Frequently Asked Questions
How many people enjoy recreational boating each year?
Annually, over 75 million people go boating each year.
How many recreational boat owners are there in the United States?
It is estimated that there are 20 million recreational boats in the U.S.; 11 million of them are motorboats.
What is a "boating accident"?
A boating accident may include, but is not limited to, capsizing, crew overboard, collision, fire, sinking, flooding, explosion, and disappearances.
How many boating accidents occur each year in the United States?
According to the United States Coast Guard, approximately 8,000 accidents occur each year, averaging nearly 5,000 injuries, over 800 fatalities, and causing almost $30 million in property damage.
Which state has the most boating accidents?
Florida has the highest accident rate, with California coming in second.
How do most boating fatalities occur?
Most boating fatalities occur when a passenger falls overboard or a boat capsizes.
How do most non-fatal boating accidents occur?
Most non-fatal boating accidents occur when a boat collides with another boat or object.
What is a "personal watercraft"?
The United States Coast Guard classifies a personal watercraft (PWC) as an inboard boat. It is a vessel that utilizes an inboard motor to power a water jet pump as the main source of propulsion. It is designed to be operated by a person who is sitting, standing, or kneeling on the vessel. As an inboard boat, personal watercraft are required to follow the same rules and requirements of other powerboats, in addition to any specific rules applicable to personal watercraft.
How many personal watercraft vessels are there in the United States?
There are well over 1 million personal watercraft vessels in use.
How many accidents occur each year involving personal watercraft vessels?
On average, approximately 5,000 personal watercraft accidents occur each year, resulting in 2,000 injuries and over 60 deaths.
Should I contact an attorney if I have been injured in a boating accident?
Perhaps. It may be important for you to contact an attorney who can help you protect your legal rights. Only a licensed attorney can evaluate whether you have a case that is worth pursuing. Keep in mind however that there may be time limits (Statute of Limitations) which affect your ability to sue.
How much does an attorney evaluation cost in these types of cases?
Nothing! Attorneys associated with InjuryBoard.com will evaluate your case free of charge. If a participating attorney agrees to handle your case, you will owe no fees or other costs unless that attorney recovers money for you.
How do I submit my case for a free evaluation?
Simply click on the free Ask an Attorney button and complete the online intake form. An attorney will evaluate your case and respond to you via email.
-- Article Courtesy of InjuryBoard.com
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