With the summer weather heating up, and the COVID-19 pandemic subsiding in some areas around the country, residents in Washington may be considering enjoying some time on a boat. However, boating accidents can lead to severe injuries for passengers on board. A recent boat crash in Washington resulted in the Coast Guard had to rescue four people. Here, we want to discuss this incident as well as share some safety tips for you and your family to stay safe out on the water this summer.
What happened at Cape Flattery?
In June of 2020, Coast Guard officials in Washington rescued four people from rocks and crashing waves after their boat capsized. The incident occurred on the northwest tip of the Olympic Peninsula, which is approximately 160 miles from Seattle. The Coast Guard lifted passengers two at a time from Cape Flattery. Thankfully, nobody was injured in this incident.
In this case, all four people on board were wearing lifejackets and had climbed onto a ledge shortly before the ship began to sink. The Coast Guard attempted to use their 47-foot motor lifeboat, but they were not able to get close enough because of 6-foot seas and 20 miles per hour winds.
Tips for staying safe on a boat this summer
We know that the COVID-19 pandemic has kept many people indoors over the last few months. First and foremost, please understand that this virus is still amongst us. You should only go out on the boat with members of your own household because social distancing on a water vessel is incredibly difficult.
As evidenced in the incident mentioned above, it is vital that nobody goes out on a boat if they expect there to be hazardous weather conditions. This includes high winds, which can cause significant damage to, or even capsize, a boat.
If you or your loved ones do go out on a boat, you need to ensure the following:
- The boat has been properly inspected and maintained
- Everybody onboard has proper safety gear, including life jackets
- That the person operating the boat has extensive experience
- The boat operator is not impaired by alcohol
- That you operate the boat at safe speeds
Our team can help after your boat accident
If you or somebody you love has been injured in a boating accident caused by the negligence of another person, let the team at Russell & Hill, PLLC help you today. Our goal is to thoroughly investigate every aspect of this incident so we can obtain the compensation you deserve. This can include:
- Coverage of all medical expenses related to the boat crash
- Recovery of lost income if you are unable to work
- Pain and suffering damages
- Loss of enjoyment of life damages
- Possible punitive damages against a grossly negligent boat owner or operator
When you need a Spokane personal injury attorney, you can contact us for a free consultation of your case by clicking here or calling 1-800-529-0842.