Millions of Americans either work aboard a vessel or enjoy recreational boating each year. While doing so, it is important to take certain safety precautions to prevent serious injuries, including death. Below are four tips to decrease injuries while aboard a vessel in Louisiana.
Wear U.S. Coast Guard-Approved Life Jackets
Barge workers and individuals enjoying recreational boating activities should wear life jackets while aboard a vessel that are appropriately-sized and approved by the U.S. Coast Guard. You should always make sure your life jacket is in good condition before departing on your voyage.
Avoid Drinking Alcohol Before or During Working on a Barge or Recreational Boating Outings
Vessel operators and passengers should avoid drinking alcoholic beverages before or during working or recreating on a boat or vessel. Alcohol has been proven to impair cognitive abilities, affect judgment, and compromise balance, which can cause injuries such as falling overboard, slipping and falling, or even colliding with another vessel.
Use the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary and U.S. Power Squadron’s Vessel Safety Check Service
Before departing on a voyage, the operator of a vessel (and/or vessel owner) should use the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary and U.S. Power Squadron’s Vessel Safety Check Service. This service encourages checking items such as display numbers, registration documents, personal flotation devices, visual distress signals, fire extinguishers, navigation lights, and more.
Below are some additional safety resources from the U.S. Coast Guard and OSHA:
- U.S. Coast Guard Lifesaving and Fire Safety Division
- OSHA Deck Barge Safety
- OSHA Safety and Health Regulations for Longshoring
Vessel Operators Should Learn How to Operate and Navigate Properly
Of course, an essential safety tip for a vessel’s safe operation is that vessel operators should learn how to operate and navigate their vessels properly. This can be done by taking education and certification courses and acquiring significant experience in operating a vessel with an experienced vessel operator. According to Johns Hopkins University, approximately 70 percent of boating accidents involve an operator error, so operator education is essential.
How Can An Louisiana Barge Accident Lawyer Help Me Obtain Compensation for My Injuries?
If you are injured in a barge or boating accident in Louisiana, an experienced Louisiana barge accident lawyer can evaluate your case to determine if your maritime injuries may entitle you to compensation. The litigation and settlement process for maritime injuries can be complicated. An experienced attorney can help you navigate the process and help you obtain the compensation to which you are entitled.
The Willis Law Firm assists workers and their families who suffer from maritime-related injuries. Do you have questions about maritime law and the remedies available for yourself or a loved one injured while on or near a Louisiana barge or boat? If so, give us a call at 1-800-468-4878 email us through our online webform.
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