Whether you’re an avid boater or someone who occasionally enjoys a day on the water, you need to play it safe. In the event of a crash, everyone on the vessel can suffer from a wide range of injuries.
While some of them are minor, some will leave accident victims with permanent scars and life-altering consequences. What are the common injuries from boating accidents? We will look at the most prevalent ones that can stem from these incidents.
Head Injuries
Passengers or operators can often be thrown from the boat or knocked onto hard surfaces. As a result, that can lead to traumatic head injuries. The impact from a collision, combined with the shock of being thrown around, can cause serious harm to the brain. Many times, victims will experience:
- Dizziness
- Confusion
- Nausea
- Long-term cognitive impairment
Spinal Injuries
When the boat suddenly comes to a stop or collides with another object, the impact can result in whiplash-like motions. That motion can strain the neck and spine. Sometimes, that can result in permanent paralysis or limited mobility. Even minor spinal injuries can cause chronic pain and long-term discomfort.
Fractures and Broken Bones
When a boat crashes on the waterways in Gulfport, people are often thrown around. Fractures can occur in different parts of the body depending on the severity of the crash and how the individuals are positioned. Common fractures include broken arms, legs, ribs, and even the pelvis. In extreme cases, fractures can be accompanied by dislocations or internal damage.
Lacerations and Abrasions
The sharp edges of a boat, broken glass, or debris in the water can easily cause cuts and abrasions during a boat crash. Lacerations can range from superficial scrapes to deep cuts requiring stitches or surgery.
Whiplash
When the boat suddenly jerks forward or comes to a halt in a crash, it can lead to whiplash. This injury is caused by the rapid back-and-forth motion of the neck, leading to muscle strain or ligament damage. Symptoms of whiplash include neck stiffness, headaches, dizziness, and pain in the upper back and shoulders. While whiplash may seem like a minor injury at first, it can develop into something more serious if left untreated.
Drowning or Near-Drowning
One of the most serious and life-threatening risks in a boat crash is drowning or near-drowning. When passengers are thrown from the boat into the water, they may struggle to stay afloat, especially if they’re injured or unable to swim. In some cases, people can be knocked unconscious from the impact. These scenarios can lead to near-drowning or drowning incidents.
Internal Injuries
Blunt force trauma from a boat crash can cause internal injuries, such as bleeding in the organs or damage to the lungs, liver, or spleen. These injuries may not always be immediately obvious. Sometimes, it may take days for symptoms, like abdominal pain, dizziness, or difficulty breathing, to appear.
Burns
Gasoline, oil, or electrical malfunctions can ignite during a crash. This can create a fire hazard for anyone on board. Burns can range from minor first-degree burns to more serious third-degree burns.
Foot and Ankle Injuries
If passengers are caught off guard, they can suffer injuries to these body parts. Also, people may slip or fall on wet decks, and in some cases, their feet or legs can be caught in the propeller or other mechanisms. These injuries can range from sprained ankles to broken toes or fractured feet.
Emotional Trauma
Boat crashes can also leave emotional scars. People involved in traumatic accidents may experience psychological injuries like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, or depression. These emotional effects can linger long after the physical injuries have healed.
What to Do After an Accident
After a boat crash, you need to check for injuries, administer first aid if necessary, and call emergency services immediately.
Also, you will need to report the accident. You may need to file a formal accident report with the Coast Guard or local law enforcement. Under Mississippi law, you must report an accident if there was:
- Loss of life
- Injury causing any person to remain incapacitated for a period in excess of 24 hours
- Actual physical damage to property (including vessels) in excess of $100.00
If major damages or injuries occur, you might want to consult with a maritime lawyer. They can help you with any legal obligations, insurance claims, and potential compensation for damages or injuries.
For those who have been injured while boating in Gulfport, you will want to get legal assistance. The team at Owen, Owen & Smith, PLLC, is ready to talk about your options.
