Boating is one of America’s favorite pastimes. Whether you’re a professional who’s planning a fishing excursion or a hobbyist who simply wants to enjoy the open waters, taking a boat is one of the most exciting ways to go. Unfortunately, though, there are times when it simply isn’t safe to do so. When, exactly, is it unsafe to go boating? The following three examples are situations when you need to stay far away from any boats or bodies of water. You can protect yourself from liability with OC boat insurance, but you need to take additional precautions to protect yourself from boating accidents.
When Inclement Weather Is on the Horizon
Most people don’t plan a boating excursion on a rainy day, but unpredictable weather can force you to make tough decisions. When you look at the sky and see clouds rolling in, that’s a good sign that you should think about weather safety for boaters. Every year, thousands of people are injured in boating accidents, and the lack of visibility caused by stormy weather makes these injuries exponentially more likely. Rather than go out on a boat, substitute your outdoor recreation with some indoor fun and games. Though the allure of the water may still be strong, the risk of injury simply isn’t worth it. Safe boat handling in bad weather is a difficult task even for trained professionals, and it shouldn’t be attempted if avoidance is possible.
When Your Boat Is in Need of Repair
If you’re a longtime boater, you might just accept the fact that your vessel is in need of some TLC. Maybe there are leaks you’ve ignored, and rusty spots you’ve written off as “character.” Sometimes, though, these little warning signs are symptoms of a serious problem. Ignoring parts of your boat that need to be repaired can put you at risk of mechanical failure and other potentially dangerous problems. Rather than ignore a leak or put off a repair, it’s vital that you tend to whatever issues require attention before you and your crew set sail. Failure to do so can jeopardize everybody’s safety and wellbeing.
When the Captain of the Boat Is Not Sober
This might seem like a no-brainer to anybody versed in boat safety, but sadly, not everybody is aware of the risks of boating while under the influence. It is a common problem — in 2017, this epidemic was cited as the main cause of boating-related deaths. No matter what your level of boating expertise may be, it is imperative that you are completely sober if you are behind the wheel. Inebriation puts you and anybody else on your boat or in the water at risk of serious injury and even death. If you suspect that the captain of a boat is under the influence, or plans to be, do not board the vessel.
About Mariners Insurance
Mariners General Insurance Group was founded in 1959 to protect boat owners and marine business clients. We are marine insurance experts and insure boats worldwide – in every ocean on the planet. Marine insurance is critical if you own a boat or nautical business. Trust the professionals with all of your Boat Insurance needs – trust Mariners Insurance. Call us at (888) 402-5018 any time you have questions or concerns about insurance for your vessel or marine business.
Social Title: Three Times It Isn’t Safe to Go Boating
Social Description: Boating is fun, but it isn’t always safe. These three examples of unsafe boating conditions should be avoided at all costs.
