Cold Water Makes Boat Accidents More Risky

Temperatures are beginning to drop in Pennsylvania, but that doesn’t mean it’s time to bring the boat in yet. In fact, thousands of Pennsylvania residents continue to take their boats out through the fall and winter, especially hunters and fisherman. The dangers associated with cold water combined with a Pennsylvania boating accident make keeping water safety at the forefront at all times extra important during this time of year though.

This may leave you questioning, “How Can I stay safe on the water?” Experts all tend to agree that wearing a life preserver is one of the best ways to lessen the chances of being hurt or killed in an accident.

How Life Preservers Save Lives In Boating Accidents

Life preservers fit around the neck and body in order to keep an individual afloat in the water. This can be especially important if the wearer was injured or knock unconscious in the event of a boating accident.

Life jackets can be especially important during winter months due to the debilitating nature of cold water. Ryan Walt, a boating and watercraft safety manager for the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission, says a majority of fatal accidents occur when a person falls overboard or a boat becomes filled with water and sinks. He explains that in 80 percent of fatal boating accidents, the victim wasn’t wearing a life jacket. Walt adds the rate is even higher during winter months because of hypothermia.

The Risks of Hypothermia During A Winter Boat Accident

Cold Water Shock and hypothermia are capable of killing a human within minutes of exposure, depending on the temperature of the water. Symptoms can include:

• Hyperventilation
• Changes in heart rate
• Drop in blood pressure
• Loss of mobility
• Unconsciousness

Be Safe, Wear A Life Preserver

At Lundy Law, our Philadelphia personal injury attorneys recognize the importance of staying safe when boating. That’s why we encourage you to wear a life jacket at all times when out on the water. It could save your life.