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Alcohol A Major Factor In Many Boating Accidents

Many Connecticut residents look forward to outdoor activities in the summer. The nice weather finally allows people an opportunity to take advantage of all that the state has to offer. For some individuals, this means taking a trip to spend a day on a nearby lake or river.

When out on the water, there are many things that people can do to help ensure their safety. However, they have no control over the actions of others. Some individuals may decide to mix boating with alcohol, and unfortunately, this often leads to boating accidents that can result in serious injuries or death.

According to Connecticut’s Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, nearly 70 percent of boating accidents within the state were connected to the use of alcohol. The United States Coast Guard reports that a boater operating with a blood-alcohol content of 0.10 percent is 10 times more likely to be involved in a fatal accident than an individual with a 0.00 percent BAC.

The increased risk of an accident also jeopardizes other individuals that may be out on the water. These impaired boaters will have less reaction time to avoid potential crashes. They may have difficulty spotting other boaters in the area, and might not see those who are in the water swimming nearby.

When an accident happens in the water, it can be much more devastating than a motor vehicle crash. It can take longer for rescue personnel to arrive, which may delay essential treatment that victims need to survive the crash. Locating victims may also be a problem, as they may be trapped under the watercraft or stuck underwater.

Reducing the number of these accidents is a major priority for Connecticut officials. State law enforcement officers have pledged to crackdown on those individuals that are operating while impaired. They are participating in Operation Dry Water, a nationwide initiative aimed at stopping drunk boating. Those arrested for boating under the influence face harsh penalties if they are convicted of the offense.

If you have been injured in a boating accident, you may have questions about what you can do to recover compensation from those that caused your injuries. Speak to an experienced personal injury attorney to learn more about you can do in your situation.

It is important that you receive a comprehensive evaluation before you settle your claims. Some injuries can take a long time to diagnose and treat, and it is essential that these costs are factored into any settlements that are proposed. If you release the individual from further responsibility, you may be paying for these expenses on your own.