Common Causes of Baltimore Boating Accidents: How to Protect Your Rights to Compensation
The Chesapeake Bay, Inner Harbor, and other waterways surrounding the city draw large numbers of recreational boaters every year. As the weather gets warmer, expect heavier water traffic, which increases the risk of boating accidents in Baltimore.
Crashes, collisions, and other boating mishaps pose serious risks and can cause potentially devastating injuries. Our experienced Maryland boat accident lawyers explain common causes and how to protect your rights to compensation in a claim.
Reckless Behavior That Increases Maryland Boat Accident Risks
Our area offers abundant opportunities for boating but be aware of the risks before heading out on waterways. Maryland’s Department of Natural Resources (DNR) reports an average of 150 boat accidents happen throughout the state each year and prove fatal for nearly 15 people.
Operator error and equipment failure increase the risks, but reckless boating behavior is the leading cause. Common examples include:
- Lack of training on the part of the boat owner or operator.
- Failing to adhere to navigation rules and no-wake zones.
- Operator inattention or inexperience, including failure to watch for other vessels, swimmers, or kayakers in the water.
- Excessive speed is a common problem in congested waterways, such as the Inner Harbor.
- Operating a boat in Baltimore under the influence.
To protect yourself and your passengers, take a boating safety course if you’re new to the water, follow all boating regulations, adhere to safety guidelines (such as having enough life jackets), and avoid any intoxicating substances while at the helm.
How To Protect Your Rights After a Baltimore Boating Accident
When reckless and negligent behavior on the part of others leads to boating accidents in Baltimore, you have the right to hold them liable for your losses. However, these types of claims are complex and often involve both state and federal maritime laws.
To protect your rights to compensation, it’s important to act quickly when a boat crash or collision happens:
- Call 911 and notify the U.S. Coast Guard immediately.
- Gather contact and insurance information from the boat operator, as well as the names and phone numbers of any witnesses.
- Use cell phone photos and videos to document the scene, injuries suffered, and property damage.
- Avoid downplaying injuries and seek medical care right away.
Report the accident to Maryland’s Natural Resources Police within five days, as required by law, or within 48 hours for boat accidents in Baltimore resulting in death, disability, or disappearance.
Request a Consultation Today With Our Experienced Baltimore Boating Accident Lawyers
Boating accidents in Baltimore have the potential to be devastating, turning an innocent day on the water into a nightmare that haunts you for years after. At Maryland Injury Lawyers, we provide the caring, comprehensive legal representation you need.
Our experienced Maryland boat accident lawyers fight to hold those responsible at fault and get the maximum amount you need to recover in a claim. For trusted, professional legal help, call or contact our office online. Request a consultation today.
Sources:
dnr.maryland.gov/nrp/documents/boatingsafety/annual-boat-accident-stats.pdf
uscgboating.org/library/accident-statistics/Recreational-Boating-Statistics-2024.pdf
dnr.maryland.gov/nrp/Pages/boating_enforcement.aspx
regs.maryland.gov/us/md/exec/comar/08
