As the Memorial Day holiday fast approaches, thoughts of summer fun and recreation become more and more prevalent in the minds of people in Connecticut residents. If you are like many people, this fun may involve enjoying the open water. Whether on lakes, rivers or the Atlantic Ocean, boating is among one of the quintessential summer joys. However, when the consumption of alcohol is paired with boating, the potential for danger increases greatly.
According to the United States Coast Guard, there is an increased chance that a person will die in a boating accident if found to have a blood alcohol content of 0.10 percent. This is so whether the person is a driver of, or a passenger on, a boat. Operating any type of boating vessel, even a kayak or other manually propelled watercraft, is illegal. People who violate this law can be subject to jail time, loss of boating privileges and high fines.
With approximately 33 percent of all boating fatalities involving alcohol, people are encouraged to refrain from alcohol while on the water. If alcohol is consumed, caution should be exercised as the effects of alcohol can be greater when on water versus on land. The combination of sun, wind, water and general fatigue from boating can sadly be a deadly one all too easily. Physical impairment from boating on the water include problems with balance and vision. Cognitive abilities may also be impeded.
If you want to learn more about boating accidents involving alcohol, please feel free to visit the BUI injury and death page of our Connecticut personal injury website.
