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The state closely regulates watercraft operations in an effort to keep its boaters safe. The state prohibits certain activities such as sitting on the bow of a watercraft in a way that obstructs the boat operator’s view, speeding, and dumping waste.
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READ MOREThe lakes in and around Phoenix offer residents a great opportunity to spend time on the water. While boating can be a relaxing activity, dangerous accidents on the water can leave boaters with severe injuries.
If you or a loved one were recently injured in a watercraft incident, contact a Phoenix boat accident lawyer as soon as possible. A skilled personal injury attorney with extensive knowledge of state boating laws could review your case and help you fight for financial compensation.
Boating Safety Equipment Requirements in Phoenix
Individuals boating in state waters must operate their watercraft in accordance with the law. According to Arizona Revised Statutes § 5-331, all watercrafts except sailboards must have U.S. Coast Guard-approved floatation devices onboard. Children under 12 are required to wear proper-fitting floatation devices whenever the watercraft is in operation, and all safety equipment onboard must be usable.
Any boat carrying fuel must also have fire extinguishers. Though these safety regulations are meant to prevent accidents, boating incidents still occur. An injury lawyer could represent boaters if safety measures failed to stop an accident.
For a free legal consultation with a boating accidents lawyer serving Phoenix, call 866-499-8989
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Phoenix Boating Accident Lawyer Near Me 866-499-8989
Common Causes of Watercraft Accidents
Boating accidents cause numerous injuries and fatalities every year. Most accidents are avoidable and occur due to the negligence of a watercraft operator. Some of the most common causes of boating accidents include:
- Inexperience
- Speeding
- Overloading the boat
- Lack of adequate safety equipment
- Operating the vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Turbulent water
- Bad weather
- Excessive water traffic
Other situations that often result in boat wrecks include equipment failure and restricted vision. A lawyer who regularly handles watercraft accident cases could analyze the details of a cause to determine who is liable.
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Steps to Take After a Boating Incident
The moments immediately after an accident are chaotic, but especially so when it occurs on the water. Help might not be available immediately, so boaters often must handle the initial consequences alone.
The first action of anyone involved in a mishap on the water should be to conduct a headcount to make sure no one fell overboard. If someone is missing, boaters should attempt a rescue if it is safe to do so. They should also be sure to tend to any injured people and make sure that authorities are notified. The Arizona Fish and Game Department requires boaters to report incidents that cause injuries or property damage to them within five days.
Injuries could seem minor at first, or people may believe they suffered no injuries. Even so, everyone involved should seek medical attention as soon as possible. Injuries might not become apparent for some time after the incident, but immediately seeking medical attention could be evidence that the plaintiff’s injury is related to the accident.
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Take Steps to Preserve Evidence If Possible
Boating mishaps often occur away from shore, and law enforcement officers might not arrive immediately or might not come to the scene at all. Thus, it is important for people involved in a waterborne accident to secure any evidence immediately.
Take the names and contact information of anyone who was present or witnessed the incident. Take pictures, if possible. Make notes about what happened soon after the incident while memories remain fresh. A savvy accident attorney could use this information to determine whose negligence might have contributed to an accident.
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