Florida Leads United States in Boating Accident Deaths

Ed Normand

Attorney
(866) 735-1102 Ext 336

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According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission, Florida has the unhappy distinction of again leading the nation in boating deaths.  Over last year accidental boating deaths in Florida increased by 10% in  in 2007.  Florida has now lead the nation in boating related fatalities 16 out of the last 20 years.  Nationally there are over 8,000 boating accidents each year with around 800 deaths per year nationally caused by boating accidents.  

There are many things that can be done to make boating safer.  First and foremost of course is limit the alcohol consumption.  Additionally a boater safety course should be taken by every boat operator.  Just because you do not need a boating license to operate a boat does not mean you should not get proper instruction in the rules of the waterways and is safe boating.  A good source of information on boating safety can be found at MYFWC.com, which has a section devoted to boating safety in Florida.