The U.S. Coast Guard reports more than 4,600 boating accidents claimed 672 lives and injured 3,100 boaters in 2010. A total of 1,221 watercraft accidents were reported – those accidents claimed 38 lives.

Missouri Boating Accident Attorney Ryan R. Cox understands the complexities of these cases. Such accidents are difficult or impossible to reconstruct. Drowning and alcohol use is frequently involved. And rental boats or watercrafts can further complicate a claim.

In 2010, a total of 161 Missouri boating accidents claimed 14 lives.

The nation has 12.5 million boats registered. Falls within a boat, falling overboard, waterskiing accidents, drowning and colliding with an object are among the top causes of Missouri boating injuries.

Authorities continue to pass measures aimed at improving boater safety.

A new law in 2010 requires dock owners on Missouri lakes to post the closest emergency address on their dock. The goal is to improve response times and encompasses the Lake of the Ozarks and all Missouri lakes under the control of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. In 2005, a new law began requiring boaters to complete a boater safety course approved by the Missouri State Water Patrol.

Missouri Watercraft Accident Lawyers

Watercraft accidents in Missouri and elsewhere continue to be linked to faulty or defective equipment, poor design and poorly maintained rental equipment or equipment that is improperly rented to a novice user.

In 2010, 38 riders were killed and 814 were injured in watercraft accidents nationwide, according to the U.S. Coast Guard. Nearly half of the more than 1,200 watercraft accidents that occurred that year were blamed on operator inattention and operator inexperience. About one-fourth of the reported accidents occurred on rented equipment.

Missouri watercraft accidents on rented equipment occur for a number of reasons, but poorly maintained equipment and improper rentals are leading causes. Rental companies have an obligation to provide safe equipment and to issue rentals in a responsible manner. When they don’t, and a rider is injured or killed, a claim against the rental company or watercraft owner may be possible – even if a waiver of liability was signed.

The bottom line is thousands of Missourians hit the water each year for fun and relaxation. Most are safe and responsible boaters. But when a serious or fatal accident does occur, a St. Louis personal injury attorney or wrongful death lawyer should always be consulted to help ensure that your rights are protected.

If you or a loved one is involved in a Missouri watercraft accident or boating accident, please contact St. Louis Personal Injury Attorney Ryan R. Cox at our law offices. We will personally meet with you, free of charge, either at one of our offices, at your home or in the hospital.