Boating Accidents on Lake Mead

How to stay safe this Summer

Lake Mead National Recreation Area is the 6th most visited National Recreation Area in America and has consistently stayed in the Top 10 since 1938. In 2018, Lake Mead welcomed 7.5 million visitors to the 1.5 million acres of park, many of them drawn to the 290 square miles of waterway that, when full, is one of the largest water reservoirs in the United States.

Unfortunately, with this many visitors each year, the number of accidents and injuries that occur on the water, often the result of boating accidents, are some of the highest in the nation as well. In 2017, Outside called Lake Mead the deadliest National Park in the United States which cited drowning and motor vehicle accidents as the leading causes of injuries and deaths.

The medical bills and the property damage associated with boating accidents can be astronomical due to the nature of the accidents, which can result in passengers being thrown overboard, water inhalation, and vessels sinking. While accidents are often out of our control, you can minimize the risk to yourself and others by following a few crucial safety tips:

Safety Tips:

1. ALWAYS wear a Life Jacket, even when you do not intent to enter the water. Park Services has stations where you can rent one if you do not have your own. It will ensure that you don’t exhaust yourself while treading water in an emergency situation.
2. Water, alcohol and drugs don’t mix well. Nevada and Arizona laws prohibit anyone from operating a vessel while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Any person who operates or is in actual physical control of a vessel under power or sail on the water shall be deemed to have given his consent to an evidentiary test of his blood, urine, breath or other bodily substance for the purpose of determining the alcohol content of his blood or the presence of a controlled substance.
3. Always watch for other boaters, swimmers, and debris in the water. Being aware of your surroundings will make navigating the waters safer for you and those around you.

What to do if you are involved in a boating accident

If you are in a boating accident while out on the lake, remember, all boating accidents must be reported to the National Park Service within 24 hours. Contact the attorneys at Eric Blank Injury Attorneys to ensure that you are aware of your rights and are properly compensated for any losses you may be entitled to as the result of a boating accident.

Get a free case review and consultation today!