With over five fatal boating accidents reported in March 2010 in the state of New Jersey, New Jersey State Police has come up with safety tips for boaters and are offering classes to boaters.  The boat accidents have majorly occurred because of low water temperatures leading to hypothermia and drowning.

Every boater has been advised to wear a PFD, personal flotation device, to ensure that even strong swimmers do not go down with the powerful current as is common while boating in cold waters. Besides this, having a “float plan” shared with a close friend or relative is also recommended.  Third, be sure to check the weather forecast and avoid boating while a storm is approaching.  Last, always make sure that your vessel is stocked with the proper safety equipment, radios, GPS devices, emergency locator, flares, and emergency food and water.

Our office completely backs the idea put forward by New Jersey police. It is, after all, better to be well prepared and aware of the possible dangers for boaters than to face the drastic consequences. Preparing properly is always a sensible thing to do and saves one from fatalities.

Ross Jurewitz is a San Diego personal injury lawyer and the managing attorney of the Jurewitz Law Group, a California law firm dedicated to representing people seriously injured and the families of people killed by the negligence of others.  If you or a loved one has been hurt or killed in a boat accident in California, please order your free copy of Mr. Jurewitz’s book, The Ten Biggest Mistakes that can Destroy Your California Accident Case. It is full of helpful information that will help you protect your legal rights and it is free to all California residents.