Top 10 Causes of Boating Accident Injuries in Texas

Texas affords its residents ample opportunity to enjoy boating year-round, given its abundant waterways and moderate climate. Nothing will ruin a good day on the water faster than a boating accident. One little mistake can cause life-changing effects.

While Texas does regulate boating, namely through the Texas Water Safety Act, accidents do happen…frequently. The Water Safety Act requires that anyone born after September 1993 must take a boater education certification course. It also requires boat owners to provide everyone on the boat with a personal flotation device. Despite these regulations thousands of people are injured each year on Texas waterways.

We have compiled the top 10 causes of boating accident injuries in Texas.

Failure to wear a personal flotation device (PFD). According to the United States Coast Guard, approximately 85% of boating fatalities happen because the victim was not wearing a PFD.
Driver Distraction. Whether from texting, talking on the phone or to other passengers, or engaging in horseplay, driver distraction can cause collisions or capsizing of the vessel.
Driving Under the Influence of Drugs or Alcohol. We all know that drinking and driving an automobile is a lethal combination. The same holds true for operating a watercraft while under the influence of intoxicants.
Exceeding Safe Speeds. Flying across the water in a boat or on a jet ski can be exhilarating. However, excessive speed can magnify injuries in the event of a collision.
Bad Weather. Operating a watercraft in weather isn’t always a recipe for injury, but consideration must be made for the type of vessel, the experience of the driver and the extent of the weather. Additionally, weather can be unpredictable, so the driver of the watercraft must be ready for any type of condition.
Hazardous Water Conditions. Hazards such as submerged trees; bushes, buildings, piers or other vessels can cause severe damage to your vessel and can lead to significant injuries depending on the circumstances.
Lack of Experience. Drivers who have not take the safe boating certification course or who have not had significant experience on the water are a leading cause of boating accidents in Texas.
Failure to Follow Boating Rules. Not knowing the rules is no defense for failing to follow them. All drivers of watercraft are charged with knowing the rules and following them.
Mechanical Malfunctions. Boats are known for their propensity for mechanical failures. Glitches such as stuck throttle cables can cause lethal high-speed impacts on the water.
Failure to Keep Adequate Watch. Boats can be great places to entertain, but at least one person has to keep watch at all times to avoid collisions or other unsafe circumstances.