Avoiding Unsafe Boats During Your Hawaii Trip

There are over 11 million registered recreational boating vessels in the United States, and Hawaii is a popular destination for tourists. Because of its popularity, there is no shortage of opportunities for boating in Hawaii, both for transportation and for fun. But unfortunately, high demand can lead to corners cut, meaning that you may be risking injury if you don’t take steps to avoid unsafe boats and boating behaviors. It is up to you to make sure that you keep your eyes peeled for potential warning signs and make sure you engage in safe behaviors.

• Always wear a life jacket! You want to ensure that any life jackets on board are U.S Coast Guard approved. You also want to make sure it is the proper fit for your size and weight and that it is properly fastened. Even if you are a strong swimmer, you need a life jacket.
• Educate yourself! Even if you are not the person driving the boat, the valuable knowledge you receive from boat safety courses and research can help you spot potentially unsafe conditions on boats.
• Make sure that your captain has followed his or her pre-departure safety inspection. A captain that does not perform this important inspection may be cutting corners in other ways.
• Let someone else know where you’re going and how long you’re going to be gone. This is known as a float plan. A float plan can include the following information: name, address, and phone number of trip leader and passengers; boat type and registration information; trip itinerary; and, types of communication and signal equipment onboard, such as an Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon (EPIRB) or Personal Locator Beacon (PLB). This information could prove crucial if something goes wrong and you require rescue.
• Limit the use of alcohol while on a boat. Nearly half of all boating accidents involve alcohol.
• Do not swim anywhere where boats are connected to onshore power - such as marinas. By doing so, you are risking electrocution.
• Ensure the boat is equipped with a carbon monoxide detector, as carbon monoxide is a byproduct of generators and engines many boats are equipped with.

What Are My Options If I Am Injured in a Hawaii Boating Accident?

Every boating injury is different. Depending on the circumstances surrounding your accident, any number of parties may be found liable, including drivers, boating companies, resorts, cruise lines and more. A thorough investigation of the incident will be necessary to name all at-fault parties so that they can be held responsible for the injuries they caused you.

The first thing you want to do is seek medical attention. Often, the injuries suffered while boating are serious. Once your medical needs are being addressed, you will want to reach out to a qualified Hawaii boat accident attorney. Boat accident attorneys do not charge for your consultation and you will not owe attorney fees unless the attorney is able to secure a verdict or settlement in your favor.