As New England gears up for a hot summer, the residents of New Hampshire and surrounding states are taking refuge on local lakes. Unfortunately, there have already been 2 major boating accidents on Lake Sunapee and Lake Winnipesaukee.
Boating While Intoxicated on Lake Sunapee
Shortly after 10 p.m. on Saturday, June 11th, the New Hampshire State Police received a call about a boating accident near the Lake Sunapee Yacht Club. When officers arrived on the scene, they found a 22-foot Mastercraft vessel approximately 20 feet on the shore. The boat was on a hill amongst trees and brush, and 2 people were still inside the vessel. Fortunately, the passengers were unharmed.
The 19-year-old boat operator, however, was arrested and charged with boating while intoxicated.
Alcohol is a leading cause of boating accidents in New Hampshire and across the United States.
Man Found Unresponsive on Lake Winnipesaukee
Meanwhile, in Alton, the New Hampshire State Police found an unresponsive man inside a boat on Lake Winnipesaukee. Another boater called the police just after 6 a.m. on Sunday, June 12th when they noticed a boat spinning out of control and found a 76-year-old man inside.
The man was taken to the hospital, where he was pronounced dead. The incident is still under investigation.
Boating Safety Tips for the Summer
Boating can be extremely enjoyable, especially in hot weather, but it can also be dangerous. Nevertheless, there are some steps you can take to keep yourself safe, like avoiding the leading causes of boating accidents.
To stay safe on your boat this summer:
- Make sure your boat is in good working order (get a free safety check from the United States Coast Guard)
- Check the weather before you go out and don’t boat during storms
- Always wear your life jacket
- Wear sunscreen and stay hydrated
- Don’t overload your boat with people or equipment
- Be familiar with state boating laws
- Know the “Rules of the Road” in the water
- Watch out for carbon monoxide and other harmful fumes, particularly after refueling or when your engine is idling
- Partake in water sports safely
- Use common sense and good judgment
- Avoid speeding
- NEVER drink and drive a boat
If you follow these steps, you can significantly reduce your risk of a boat accident on New Hampshire lakes.
Of course, you cannot control other people, and sometimes, careless behavior causes preventable boating accidents.
If you get hurt in a boating accident that is not your fault, you may be entitled to compensation.
Douglas, Leonard & Garvey, P.C. can help you get it. We have been helping clients like you through similar situations since 1997, and we are ready to fight for you, too.
With more than 100 years of legal experience, we can provide you with personalized legal services and help you move forward after your boat accident.
For more information about what our team can do for you, please call us at (603) 288-1403 or contact us online and schedule your free consultation today.