What to Do If in You’re in a Minor Boat Accident

Today is the hottest day of summer, and if you’re like us, you’re already planning ways to beat the heat this weekend. Maybe you’re going to the pool or driving to the beach. Or maybe you Charlotteans are planning to take the boat to Lake Norman or Lake Wylie with your family and friends.

Time spent on the lake should be nothing but fun, but as the number of boats and water crafts rise, the risk for potential accidents increases as well. In the unfortunate event that you’re in a boating accident, there are certain procedures that need to be followed to make sure everything is handled properly.

First. Move the boat to a safe location. Make sure it is out of the way of other boats, reducing the risk of another accident.

Second. If you are operating the boat, check to see if any of your passengers have been injured. The “captain” is considered responsible for the safety of all passengers.

Third. If someone has been injured severely, call for medical assistance immediately.

Fourth. Call the police or coast guard, depending on the seriousness of the accident. A police officer will let you know if the accident is serious enough for an officer to be present or if it can be resolved by the parties involved.

Fifth. Make sure the boat or watercraft is able to be driven safely before continuing on your voyage. A minor accident that is under $2,000 in damages typically won’t need to be reported, but it must be reported if there is any medical assistance needed.

It’s also important to note that most policies require you to report the incident within five days for insurance purposes. A report under boat insurance must include information from all parties present and include the details of the event.

Being on a boat is fun, and being prepared will keep it that way. Happy sails to you!