How to Avoid Typical Boat Accident Causes

Going out on your boat is a great way to relax and spend time with friends and family. However, if you aren’t careful while operating your boat, you may find yourself in a terrible accident on the water. In order to keep yourself and your passengers safe, follow these important tips to avoid boating disasters.

1. Don’t Boat While Intoxicated

Just as you should not drive while drunk on land, you need to avoid operating a boat if you’ve been drinking alcohol or consuming recreational drugs. Both of these types of substances lower your inhibitions, making you more reckless, and they slow your reaction time so that you can’t get out of the way of an obstacle quickly. Be smart and stay sober while operating your boat; have your celebratory beers when you’re safe at home.

2. Always Pay Attention

Failing to focus on the path ahead of your boat can cause you to ram into another boat or an obstacle very easily. Don’t mess with the radio or play on your phone while you’re operating your boat; if you need to step away from the helm for any reason, you should have an appointed skipper who’s experienced in operating boats that can take over for you.

3. Keep Your Boat Maintained

Another common cause of boating accidents is the neglect of general boat upkeep. You need to make sure that you stay on top of your boat’s maintenance schedule. Tuning up your boat on a regular basis will prevent it from breaking down on the water, which can potentially cause an accident. Contact the Midwest Marine Boat Company service department if you need some professional assistance with boat maintenance.

Visit our dealership in Harrisonville, MO, to check out our fine selection of new and used boats for sale. We can even assist you with financing options on your purchase. Midwest Marine Boat Company serves our Missouri customers in the city of Raymore.