Boating Accidents and Personal Injury Claims: Staying Safe on the Water This Summer

Summer is a time to unwind, explore the outdoors, and enjoy everything Texas has to offer—from lake days and beach getaways to boating adventures. But while boating is a fun and freeing way to spend your summer, accidents on the water can have devastating consequences.

If you or your loved one is injured in a boating accident caused by someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation.

Common Causes of Boating Accidents

Boats may not seem as dangerous as cars—but boating accidents can cause serious injuries or even death. Some of the most common causes include:

Intoxication
Operating a boat under the influence of alcohol or drugs is extremely dangerous. Impaired coordination, slowed reaction time, and poor judgment can quickly lead to disaster.

Operator Error
Inexperience, distraction, reckless behavior, or ignoring poor weather conditions can put everyone on board at risk.

Equipment Failure
Steering issues, engine failure, and other mechanical problems can become life-threatening—especially when you’re far from shore.

Poor Weather Conditions
Sudden storms, strong winds, and rough waves make navigation difficult and increase the risk of capsizing or collisions.

Many of these accidents are preventable. But when someone fails to take reasonable precautions, the consequences can be serious.

What To Do After a Boating Accident

If you’re involved in a boating accident, protect yourself and your legal rights by taking the following steps:

1. Get Medical Attention
Seek immediate medical care—even if you feel fine. Injuries can worsen over time or go unnoticed at first.

2. Report the Accident
Notify the Coast Guard or local water patrol. An official report helps establish what happened and may be required for a legal claim.

3. Document the Scene
Take photos or videos of the boat, the accident scene, injuries, and any damage. Save receipts for any related expenses.

4. Speak with an Attorney
A personal injury lawyer can help determine if negligence was involved and guide you through the claims process.

When is a Boating Accident Considered Negligence?

Negligence means someone failed to act with reasonable care, resulting in harm. In boating accidents, negligence can include:

• Operating a boat under the influence

• Failing to provide safety equipment

• Ignoring reckless behavior from passengers or crew

• Failing to inspect or maintain the vessel

• Boating during hazardous weather

Boating Accident? Call Shaw.

Summer memories shouldn’t be cut short by someone else’s carelessness.

If you or a loved one were injured in a boating accident in Texas due to negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for:

• Emergency Treatment

• Medical Bills

• Missed Work

• Pain and Suffering

• Property Damage

• Wrongful Death

• And More

Let us help you find out if you have a case—for free.

Call Shaw at 800-862-1260 or use the live chat to schedule your free case evaluation with an experienced personal injury attorney. No fees, no obligations—just the expert advice you need. Carabin Shaw has been a trusted name in San Antonio and across Texas for over 32 years because we put our clients first.

We look forward to serving you.