Boating is a favorite community pastime, whether relaxing on the water, fishing, or enjoying water sports — but it comes with risks. To best understand boating accidents, The Morrow Insurance Agency in Mesa, AZ has compiled the top risk factors. Be aware of these risks when on the water as listed by the Arizona Game & Fish Department’s frequent contributing factors to boating accidents and casualties.
Risk Factors in Boat Accidents
Accidents can happen when boating despite your best efforts, but there are many ways you can lessen these risks. Take preventative action to avoid these common complaints, and make sure you have a strong boater’s insurance policy that covers the rest.
- Avoid excess alcohol use or drug use that can impair boat operation
- Get educated on boat operations and how to pay attention to both risks and navigational aids. Learn the local laws and consider a boater’s safety course.
- Avoid boating in hazardous waters such as strong currents or areas with restricted vision (e.g., fog)
- Ensure your boat is in proper working order at all times, including motors, navigation lights, and safety gear
- Practice safe docking with proper anchoring of the boat, storage and loading of gear, and onboarding of passengers
- Drive safely. Don’t speed, jump wakes, add passengers to the gunwale or perform other daring maneuvers.
- Follow boating traffic regulations when entering and leaving dock space.
- Register and insure your boat according to local Arizona laws. Consider both legal liability and also property damage coverage.
Get Boat Insurance Today
Understanding the risks can help prevent future accidents. The Morrow Insurance Agency serving Mesa, AZ is here to help safeguard your family in the event of a boating accident. Contact us today!
