Unfortunately, boating, skiing and other water activities can have devastating results. Although the state of Nevada has boating regulations that every licensed boater must adhere to, failure to do so can lead to serious accidents. Boating accidents can also be caused by defective equipment and mechanical malfunctions. These types of accidents may result from failure to maintain the watercraft or product defects.
Boat Accidents Involving Alcohol
Accidents happen when you are sober. Getting behind the wheel of any vehicle while under the influence can have catastrophic consequences. Drinking and boating is just as dangerous as drunk driving and can warrant some harsh penalties. A drunk boating can be charged formally with BUI (Boating Under Influence) for having a blood alcohol level of .08 percent or higher. Not only that but they can also face civil penalties for accidents and injuries that they may cause.
It is not an uncommon thing for drinking to take place of Nevada’s lakes and rivers. However, there is no excuse for driving a boat while under the influence. If you or someone you loved was involved in a boating accident due to someone else’s negligence, contact a Hale Injury Law attorney today.
Boating Regulations for State of Nevada
The NDOW (Nevada Department of Wildlife) is the boating safety, education and enforcement agency for the state of Nevada. The boating safety office is responsible for boating education, safety and law enforcement. Here are some boating regulations you may not have been aware of:
- All children under 13 years of age must wear life jackets (it is recommended that all passengers on a boat wear a life jacket)
- Persons born on or after January 1, 1983 will need to complete a boating education course to operate a motorboat of more than 15 horsepower on Nevada’s interstate waters.
- People using a paddle craft, including canoes, kayaks and stand up paddle boards, are required to carry a life jacket and follow boating rules of the road. Even though you are paddling, you are still a boater subject to many of the same requirements.
Experienced Boating Accident Lawyers in Las Vegas
If you have been injured due to someone elses’ negligence for any of the various reasons of why an accident can happen, you need someone you can trust. You need Hale Injury Law. We will work to get you the compensation you deserve and back to feeling like you again. Contact us today for your FREE consultation!