Facts about Boating Accidents and Boating Safety

By State Auto Insurance Company

Introduction

State Auto Insurance Company has been honored with a number of recognitions, such as being named one of Forbes 50 Most Trustworthy Financial Services Companies in both 2013 and 2014. Based out of Columbus, Ohio, State Auto Insurance Company provides clients with information vital to avoiding mishaps such as tree damage and boating accidents.

Taking a boat out onto the water can be a relaxing or exhilarating pastime. Unfortunately, boating accidents can occur, and a captain must do all that he or she can to minimize a collision or harmful event while steering a vessel.

Boating Accidents

Taking a boating safety course can be instrumental in learning the various facts about boating and causes of accidents on the water.

Data reveals that about 84 percent of boaters enjoy their vessel for social reasons, as hosting a few friends and family members on the water can make for a memorable day. However, at least 70 percent of boating accidents can be attributed to operator error. A captain should therefore take every step possible to make sure he or she is adequately prepared for a voyage and will not become distracted from their responsibilities, even on a social voyage.

Conclusion

Furthermore, 80 percent of deaths that occur during a boating accident can be linked to the operator having insufficient safety training, if any at all. More than half of all boat owners have never taken a safety class.

However, boaters can easily find nearby safety courses by using online resources such as the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary website. For more information, go to cgaux.org/boatinged.