For many Oklahomans, there’s no better way to beat the heat of a Sooner State summer than by getting out on the water — whether that’s bass fishing on Grand Lake, canoeing the scenic Illinois River, or jet skiing on Lake Murray. But the good times can end fast when there’s an accident, especially one involving:
- Impaired operators
- Distracted operators
- Speeding or aggressive boat driving
- Boats getting too close to others
- Falls into the water or onto the deck
- Boats hitting underwater objects or other vessels
- Accidents caused by improper maintenance
These accidents are especially tragic when they could have been avoided by taking the proper safety precautions. That’s why the Oklahoma boating accident lawyers at Ryan Bisher Ryan and Simons think you should know these boating safety tips as summer starts to heat up. If you have been involved in a boating accident, contact our office right away for a free consultation.
Boating Safety: How to Avoid Accidents on the Water
When it comes to boating safety in Oklahoma, here are a few tips to follow:
- Take a boating safety course. The Oklahoma Highway Patrol offers a free, six-hour course that can help you stay safe on the water.
- Do not let young people operate a boat alone. No one younger than age 12can legally drive a boat. Operators ages 12 to 16 must take an approved safety course and have an adult present before they can legally operate a boat.
- Make sure you are familiar with Oklahoma’s boating laws, which can be found in this handbook from the Oklahoma Department of Public Safety.
- Be sure everyone on the vessel has a life jacket that fits properly and is in good condition before you get out on the water.
- Keep up with maintenance and make sure there are no issues with your vessel before you set out on the water. You can get a free vessel safety check from the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary.
Some of the most popular destinations for recreational boating in Oklahoma include the following:
- Spring Creek Swim Beach
- Blue Hole Park
- Foss Lake
- Pawnee Bathhouse and Waterpark
- McGee Creek Reservoir
- Grand Lake
- Lake Murray
These spots are popular, which means they can also be crowded. Be especially careful when boating in these areas.
Recent Boating Accident Statistics
According to recent information from the U.S. Coast Guard, there were 59 boating accidents across Oklahoma in one recent year, resulting in 17 deaths, 50 injuries, and almost $220,000 in property damage. The two most common types of boating accidents that year were flooding accidents and collisions with other recreational vehicles, at 10 accidents each.
When to Contact an Oklahoma Boating Accident Lawyer
The best time to call an Oklahoma water recreation accident lawyer is as soon as possible after the crash. Critical evidence can deteriorate or disappear in the days after an accident on a boat. An experienced lawyer can preserve that evidence, file insurance claims and demand letters, and negotiate on your behalf for the compensation you deserve.
Contact Ryan Bisher Ryan and Simons today for a free consultation with an Oklahoma boat accident attorney.
We are Ryan Bisher Ryan & Simons, a legal firm that, for decades, has been fighting for the rights of hardworking Oklahoma residents. Our mission is to hold the powerful accountable.
