During the summer months, it is not uncommon for people to throw beach parties and boat parties that involve alcohol. While many people can safely enjoy leisure and recreational drinking on a boat, the situation can become dangerous if the boat operator is intoxicated. Not only is boating while intoxicated illegal, it is also a negligent act for which victims and their families can sue.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a boating accident caused by a drunk operator, do not hesitate to contact the Fort Lauderdale boating accident lawyers of Salpeter Gitkin, LLP, by calling 954-467-8622 today.
Signs of a Drunk Boat Operator
Accidents can occur so quickly on the water that there is little that anyone can do to stop them once the hazardous circumstances have developed. However, watching for warning signs of drunk boating can help you avoid potentially dangerous operators who might cause an accident. Some signs of drunken boating include:
- Speeding or erratically accelerating, decelerating, or steering
- Weaving too closely to other boats or swimmers
- Failure to turn on running lights or lamps when lighting conditions warrant their use
- Failure to acknowledge the warnings of other boaters
If you notice a boat operator exhibiting any of these dangerous behaviors, he or she may be intoxicated. Be sure to keep a clear distance from the boat in question and report it to the coast guard or local water police as soon as possible. Reporting a potentially drunk boater could help to prevent a crash and may even save a life.
Contact Us
When you are involved in a boating accident, you need a lawyer that you can count on to pursue the full amount of compensation that you are owed for your injuries and damages resulting from another party’s negligence. To speak with one of our Fort Lauderdale boating accident attorneys about your legal options, contact Salpeter Gitkin, LLP, at 954-467-8622.
