Common Boating Accidents and How to Avoid Them

Whether you’re on a sailboat, motor yacht or personal watercraft, accidents can happen on the lake, the ocean or cruising down the river. Don’t let things like speeding, equipment failure, operator inattention or alcohol (some of the most common causes of boating accidents, by the way) ruin an enjoyable day on the water. BoatTowUS offers fuel delivery, on-water towing, jump starts and soft ungrounding if you find yourself on a sandbar. This is all good to know, but let’s look at some of the most common boating accidents and learn how to prevent them in the first place.

Common Boating Accidents

Collisions

Running into another boat or a dock is an accident that simply doesn’t need to happen. According to the Coast Guard, operator inattention is the most common cause of boating accidents. Inattention (whether it’s because of alcohol or other reasons) can result in not seeing another boat, buoys or other objects in the water. Always be aware of how fast you’re going and what’s around you. Additionally, enlist the help of a lookout while underway (especially if towing skiers or wakeboarders). We can’t say this enough (and we’ll probably say it again): Absolutely no alcohol if you’re the boat operator. Save it for later while relaxing at the private boat slip for rent.

Break Downs

Break downs can happen because of several things: dead batteries, faulty equipment or insufficient fuel. Check fuel levels before leaving the boat dock for rent and periodically throughout the day. Perform regular maintenance to make sure that all equipment is in working order. It’s a good idea to have a tool kit along with you on the boat. Consider a class on basic boat maintenance for even more confidence and peace of mind when leaving the dock or boat slip for rent.

As for the dead battery: during daylight hours, having a dead battery isn’t terrible (inconvenient, yes, but not terrible), but you’re invisible at night (since without a battery, you’re probably without lights as well). Regularly check the battery for fluid levels and proper voltage. Have a flashlight for a backup signal light if stranded at night.

Running Aground

Running aground can be more than just embarrassing and a slight inconvenience; it can be dangerous. Be aware of where you are and how deep the water is by using depth finders (even fish finders can relay how deep the water is). This is where having a lookout comes in handy, especially if you’re in unfamiliar water or fishing the flats and other shallow waterways. Fill out a float plan so that somebody on land can notify the proper individuals if you don’t show up back at the boat lift rental or wherever else you’re supposed to be.

Sinking

Boat sinking usually happens because of something simple, not a massive hole in the boat (though a collision can cause that). It’s typically due to something like through-hull fittings that have become rusted, cracked or otherwise compromised. By the time you’re out on the water, the boat is taking on water and it’s too late to do anything. Check the bilge pump and bilge plug before heading out from a private boat slip rental.

Fire

While rare, fires can happen since there are fuel and electrical lines on a boat. Be sure to check the bilge for fuel fumes as well as spills and leaks. Always have all the proper safety equipment and essential gear on board: fire extinguisher, life jackets, flares, lights and horn.

Along with all the human-generated boating obstacles, there are some natural ones. The weather can quickly turn on you out on the water, causing stranding, a rough ride or even capsizing at the extreme end of the spectrum. Be aware of the weather by paying attention to the sky, water conditions and wind patterns. Use weather apps, navigation gear and VHS radios to stay up to date on storm forecasts and changing weather.

Safe boating and accident prevention are essential whether you’re on a Great Loop adventure, cruising to the Bahamas from Florida, sailing the Bahamas-Cuba Loop or heading to the local lake from a private boat lift for rent. We hope you’ve picked up a few pointers to make it a safe day. Happy boating!