Boating Safety Guide
BOATING SAFETY GUIDE
Boating is a popular pastime throughout the United States. According to the Boating Safety Division of the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG), 11,957,886 vessels were registered in 2021. Although boating is a recreational activity, safety standards must be taken seriously.
At least 4,439 boating accidents occurred in 2021, resulting in 658 deaths and 2,641 injuries. These accidents are almost always preventable.
CONTRIBUTING FACTORS
The USCG statistics show that the following circumstances were the top 10 contributing factors in boating accidents:
- Inattention
- Inexperience
- Improper lookout
- Machinery failure
- Excessive speed
- Alcohol use
- Force of wave
- Navigation rules violation
- Hazardous waters
- Weather
- Alcohol use is the leading factor identified in fatal boating accidents. According to the BoatUS Foundation, half of all boating accidents involve alcohol.
Boating under the influence is not only dangerous, but it is a federal offense punishable by a fine of $1,000. It is also a state crime that could result in higher fines, imprisonment, loss of boating privileges, loss of driving privileges and seizure of the boat.
