10 Safety Tips for Recreational Boaters in California

As dedicated accident attorneys in Southern California, we know how to navigate the legal complexities of boating accidents and secure the maximum compensation for our clients. Ready to get the settlement you deserve? Contact Case Barnett Law to schedule a free consultation. 

With hundreds of miles of coastline and a wealth of inland waters, California is the perfect home for boaters of all kinds. However, boating isn’t always a carefree pastime. The reality is that just like cars, boats are vulnerable to serious accidents. The main difference is that when boating accidents occur, those involved are often unaware of how to protect themselves. 

If you are a boat enthusiast or frequent recreational boater in California, knowing how to protect yourself in the event of an accident is of paramount importance. Don’t worry — Case Barnett Law is here to help. This article will provide 10 critical safety tips for recreational boaters in California and explain why legal guidance is so important when navigating the aftermath. 

1. Always Wear Life Jackets

Just like seat belts, life jackets save lives. Too many boaters find reasons to avoid putting on a life vest: they’re strong swimmers, only traveling a short distance, or simply don’t like the way life jackets look. If you’re one of these boaters, just remember: No one expects to be in an accident, and if you’re not wearing a life vest when your boat crashes, your chances of drowning skyrocket. Plus, California law requires life jackets for certain activities, as well as for children under 13. 

2. Check Weather Conditions Before Departure

Weather can change rapidly, especially on open water. What looks like a beautiful day now could quickly turn perilous when you’re out on your boat. Make sure to always check your local marine weather forecasts before departing on the boat — even if you’re only traveling a short distance. If you’re out on the water when bad weather hits, don’t assume it will improve; make a plan to return to shore as soon as you can. 

3. Adhere to a Pre-Departure Checklist

A little bit of preparation can save you immense time and trouble when you’re out on the water. Before departing the shore, confirm that your water vessel is in good working order and contains the necessary safety equipment, including signals, fire extinguishers, a first-aid kit, etc. And remember that boats, just like cars, require regular maintenance in order to remain safe. 

4. Operate at a Safe Speed

Speeding causes countless accidents on water and on land. Just because you don’t see any other vessels or obstacles in your immediate vicinity doesn’t mean they’re not there. That’s why you should always maintain a speed that allows you to react to emerging threats and stop quickly and safely. Although speeding can increase your risk of collisions and accidents in any environment, it is especially dangerous when traveling through high-traffic waters, waters with limited visibility, or waters with unique navigational hazards. 

5. Implement a Float Plan

It might seem like overkill, but making a float plan can save your life. Before departing, inform someone on land about your float plan, providing details about your trip, the boat, and the passengers on board. If your boat breaks down, wrecks, or is overtaken by bad weather, this information will prove vital to your rescue. 

6. Educate Yourself and Your Crew

Getting into boating isn’t like learning how to ride a bicycle. Boating comes with tremendous risks, and you owe it to yourself and others to learn the pertinent information. Even experienced boaters can benefit from taking a boating safety course. These classes cover crucial topics like navigation rules, emergency procedures, and how to use life-saving equipment. Due diligence also requires a thorough understanding of your vessel and how to operate it safely and within the law. 

7. Avoid Alcohol and Drugs

Inebriation, motor vehicles, and deep waters don’t mix. Operating a boat under the influence of alcohol or drugs greatly increases your risk of an accident, injury, and even death, as intoxication impairs judgment, concentration, and reaction time. Plus, boating under the influence (BUI) or with a blood-alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08 or greater violates California law. 

8. Keep a Vigilant Lookout

Most road hazards are marked with signage, cones, or closures, but that’s not the case on the water. Don’t make the mistake of thinking all boating hazards are easily and immediately visible — boats, swimmers, rocks, marine life, and other obstacles can quickly appear out of nowhere. If you’re not keeping a vigilant eye on your surroundings, you may not see a hazard until it’s already caused a devastating boating accident. 

9. Ensure Reliable Communication Methods Are Available

Of all the nightmare boating situations, finding yourself unable to make contact with land is one of the most terrifying. Before taking your boat out, ensure you have at least two reliable methods of communication onboard. A working VHF radio and a cellphone (preferably in a waterproof container) are absolutely essential. 

10. Consult a Boating Accident Attorney

Although diligent planning and taking certain safety measures can help you decrease the likelihood of being involved in a boating wreck, some accidents are unavoidable. If you suffer serious injuries in a boating accident you didn’t cause; you shouldn’t be footing the bill for your damages. Speak with a boating accident attorney in Southern California to explore your legal options for securing compensation. 

Case Barnett Law: Top Boating Accident Lawyers in California

Boating laws and regulations in California are complex and deter too many injury victims from seeking the compensation they deserve. If you were involved in a boat wreck, you may be facing steep consequences — even if you didn’t cause the boating accident. 

The best way to protect yourself and secure a comprehensive settlement is by speaking with an experienced Orange County boating accident lawyer. Luckily, you don’t have to look too far: Case Barnett Law is here to help. Ready to speak with a dedicated attorney who will fight for your maximum compensation? Schedule a free case evaluation today.