Watch Out on the Water
Nothing says summer fun more than boating, canoeing or any other on-the-water activities one can enjoy throughout a Minnesota summer. As carefree and enjoyable these pastimes can be, one needs to be mindful that accidents can and do happen on Minnesota lakes and rivers. According to the Minnesota DNR, in 2011 there were 16 boating accident fatalities on Minnesota waters, 67 non-fatal boating accidents, and 50 non-boating related deaths due to drowning. Boating accidents are responsible for even more personal injuries and hundreds of thousands of dollars’ worth of property damage. Playing on the water is a fun and popular activity for families and friends. There are lots of opportunities to jump-in and have fun in the many lakes and rivers found in Minnesota. However, spending time on the water requires respect, planning and precautions.
When going out for a day of fun on a lake or river, begin you activity by being prepared. Make sure there is a life jacket for every passenger aboard the boat or canoe when out for a cruise or fishing. If on a jet-ski (also known as personal watercraft), make sure anyone operating or riding on the jet-ski is wearing a life jacket. Before launching the boat, canoe or jet-ski, take the time to check the local weather report for the possibility of any bad weather in the forecast for that day. Bring plenty of drinkable water on board for each person. On a hot and sunny day it’s easy to become dehydrated. And speaking of sunny, remember the sunscreen and apply as needed, and don’t forget the insect repellant to ward off Minnesota’s “unofficial state bird,” the mosquito!
Once on the water, prevent accidents by being attentive to others on the water and by paying attention to the weather. While most boating accidents happen on sunny and clear days, weather can sometimes play a role in property damage, personal injuries and fatalities on the water. When it comes to oncoming boat traffic, follow the same rules that you do on the road; stay to the right. Jet skiers should not be jumping wakes within 150 feet of other boats. All boat drivers and jet skiers must keep an eye out for tubers, water skiers, knee boarders and others playing on the water without the protection of being on board some form of water craft.
When a boating accident happens that results in serious injury, property damage or has fatal consequences, the local sheriff must be called immediately; it’s the law in Minnesota. Once everyone has received necessary medical treatment, it’s time to contact a law firm well versed in personal injury, property damage and laws regarding these types of accidents. A team of legal experts including lawyers, paralegals, and investigators will work on uncovering the conditions and actions that may have contributed to the accident. When the investigation identifies who may be responsible for the injuries and damages, the appropriate legal action can be taken against those who are found liable.
If you or a loved one has suffered personal injury as the result of a boating or water activity accident, you should contact an attorney. Dealing with serious personal injuries can be traumatic, and the loss of a loved one due to drowning can be a heart wrenching and harrowing experience. In such incidents there are always legal issues and factors that require immediate attention. When looking for the right team of experts for you, it’s important to find a trustworthy law firm staffed with experienced and tested professionals. The required skill and legal experience they can provide will make the process as smooth as possible and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
About the Author
Paige Donnelly Attorneys at Law in St. Paul MN have 50 years of experience in personal injury claims throughout the Twin Cities and Minnesota. The personal injury lawyers at Paige Donnelly specialize in many practice areas such as car accidents and boating accidents.
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