Boating is one of the most popular summer activities, and it’s easy to see why. Taking a boat ride is fun in itself, and it can also lead to other great activities such as swimming and fishing. Unfortunately, when people are having a good time, alcohol is often involved, even in situations that are potentially dangerous before their beer and wine even entered the picture. Boating is certainly no exception to this.

Many people see boating as a safer activity than driving a car, and they feel that since the risk of crashing is much less, that it’s okay to drink alcohol while on board. The truth is, more than 60 percent of all boating accidents are alcohol related. If you or a loved one becomes injured while out on the water, it’s imperative to call medical help immediately, and then contact your local Atlanta boating accident attorney or Atlanta personal injury attorney.

Besides being extremely dangerous, driving a boat while drunk is illegal. Many of the same rules apply to boating as car driving, and if they’re not follow, it can lead to hefty fines and even time in jail. So, if you truly think that injury is not an issue when “drunk boating,” think about the risk you’ll face if you get caught.

Some Alternatives…

  • If you’re a passenger, and you’re going to drink a small amount of alcohol, make sure you bring along plenty of food to subdue the effects of alcohol.
  • Alcohol dehydrates the body. Instead of alcohol, all passengers and drivers should consider thirst-quenching drinks like water or lemonade.
  • Maybe you should consider having a few drinks on your boat, while it’s still tied to the dock. Sure, it may not be as exciting, but it’s certainly much safer than getting intoxicated while out in the middle of a body of water.

If you’ve been injured in a boating accident, don’t hesitate to contact Bruce A. Hagen, you’re top personal injury attorney in Atlanta.