BOATING AND WATER SAFETY AT THE BEACH

Huffman & Huffman Brothers-in-Law, P.L.L.C.
2 mins READ
Get a free consultation Call us About us

It’s been getting warmer and warmer here on the Virginia coast, signaling the return of beach days, boat trips, and more on-the-water fun.

A sunny day can quickly turn dark if someone is injured while swimming or using a boat or Jet Ski — but don’t worry! A few simple safety precautions will keep you and your loved ones safe when enjoying a day at the beach.

KEEP THE PROPER SAFETY EQUIPMENT ON BOARD

Keeping your boat stocked with all of the items you will need in case of an emergency will ensure you are always prepared.

A few items that you should have on your boat at all times include:

  • Life jackets and other floatation devices
  • First aid kit
  • Flashlight
  • Ropes
  • Fire extinguisher

MAINTAIN YOUR BOAT

A well-maintained boat is a safe boat. If you are going to use your boat, all repairs should be up to date. Maintenance issues can contribute to accidents, and regular fixes will keep the need for expensive future repairs at bay.

TAKE A CLASS TO LEARN PROPER BOATING PROCEDURES

Operating a boat is complex, and to do so safely, you should receive the proper training. A comprehensive boating class will teach you how to drive, anchor the boat, and dock correctly, among other necessities for boat operation.

If you are renting a boat or Jet Ski, the rental business may offer classes. Ask about a renter’s training program before choosing their company.

DON’T USE ALCOHOL OR DRUGS

To safely operate a boat or personal watercraft, you should never be intoxicated. Even if you are not driving and are just a passenger, stay sober! The risk of injury is too high to endanger yourself by drinking alcohol or using drugs.

CHECK THE WEATHER

This tip is something you may already do before a day on the water: Check the weather! This quick preparation step will let you know not only if it’s going to be warm and sunny enough to have a great beach day, but will warn you of any potential form storms. If there is even a small chance that it’s going to storm on the day you are planning on taking your boat out, it may be best to stay on land.

Call (757) 599-6050 to discuss your boat accident case with our team — available 24/7! Or, complete our contact form to schedule a free consultation.

Related Posts

  • A medium-sized black-and-tan dog standing upright behind a rusted chain-link fence gate, with its front paws lifted and mouth open as if barking, surrounded by tall green grass and vegetation, while a narrow rural road runs along the left side and trees and foliage fill the sunlit background.
    Dog Bites
    Personal Injury
    5 mins READ

    Dog Bite Lawsuit Complexities

    Dog bites can cause not just physical harm but also lasting emotional wounds. If you’re considering filing a legal claim after being injured by an aggressive animal, you should know that the laws surrounding dog bites in Virginia are complex, and recovering compensation isn’t always simple. This post will unpack the basics of Virginia’s dog...
    Read More  
  • A delivery rider wearing a helmet and padded jacket drives a white scooter with a yellow cargo box attached to the back, traveling along a city street lined with evergreens.
    Car Accidents
    Dog Bites
    Pedestrian Accidents
    Personal Injury
    Premises Liability
    Slip and Fall Accidents
    4 mins READ

    Injured While Delivering? What DoorDash, Instacart, and Gig Drivers Need to Know

    Over the last decade, gig work has become a convenient way for many Americans to earn income. Platforms like DoorDash, Instacart, Uber Eats, and Amazon Flex allow people to set their own hours, making it easier for those with family commitments or other jobs to manage their busy schedules. However, while delivery driving is a great option...
    Read More  
  • Bird view of a table with smartphone, coffee, pencil and documents on it. The calculator shown on the smartphone and it looks like person is doing his taxes.
    Personal Injury
    4 mins READ

    Are Personal Injury Settlements Taxable in Virginia? What You Need to Know

    Whether you’ve just started the process of filing a personal injury claim or are already negotiating a settlement, you may be wondering how taxes could affect the compensation you receive. The short answer is that whether your settlement is considered taxable depends on what the compensation is for. Some settlements may not be taxable at...
    Read More