Missouri is famed for its lakes and rivers, and boating is one of the most popular summertime activities here in the "show me" state. However, with boating inevitably comes boating accidents, injuries and accidental drowning. Many of these unfortunate watercraft accidents could easily be avoided if boaters took the proper safety precautions, and were familiar with the Missouri's boating laws and regulations. For this reason, Missouri boating accident lawyers were pleased to see that the Water Patrol Division of the Missouri Highway Patrol has offered a new boating safety certification course for the citizens of Jefferson City.
The classes will be held at Troop F headquarters, August 17 and 18, 2011 from 5:45 p.m. to approximately 9:00 p.m. Students must be present both evenings to receive the certification and boating safety card. The two evening course is free to the public, however, students are asked to pre-register on-line as seating is fairly limited.
According to Missouri law, anyone born after January 1, 1984, must carry a boating safety certification card along with their photo ID when ever they operate a vessel on any of Missouri's many lakes. This includes all personal watercraft.
Learn How to Avoid Boating Accidents in Columbia, Jefferson City and the rest of Missouri
To register for this important safety course, or to find out where other similar courses are being offered in Missouri, please visit the Missouri State Highway Patrol's website. Any student who passes this course will then be eligible to receive the boating safety certification card for the small charge of $15.
For further information about the Water Patrol Division's safety course, please contact: Sgt. Jerry Callahan
573-751-3313
Troop F Headquarters
2920 N. Shamrock Rd. (east of Jefferson City on US 50)
Causes of Jefferson City and Columbia Boating Accidents
Boating is one of Missouri's main recreational attractions. In fact, there are 69 major lakes in Missouri. Who doesn't like to relax out on the water, maybe get in some fishing, and just enjoy the glorious summer weather and cool lake breezes? Sadly, this pursuit of fun and relaxation can quickly turn dangerous or even deadly if safe boating rules and common sense are not applied along you're your sunscreen.
The main reported boating accident out on Missouri's lakes concerns boating collisions. To avoid this--stay alert, and study the boating right of way laws.
Capsizing the vessel and falling overboard are the causes of more than half of all reported boating fatalities. To avoid this--do not drink and drive the boat, and have everyone wear their life jackets at all times.
The U.S. Coast Guard reports boating accident fatalities in the hundreds every year, along with thousands of injuries. On top of those sobering statistics, there is also millions of dollars in property damage.
Carelessness, recklessness, operator distraction, excessive speed and inexperience are the documented reasons for the vast majority of boat accidents.
A Missouri boating accident report must be filed if:
- The accident results in a fatality.
- Anyone is injured and needs medical attention beyond basic first aid.
- Your boat sustains damage.
- A person on board has disappeared, and there is the possibility that death or injury has occurred.
If you or a loved one have been injured in a boating accident, it is always wise to consult with a Missouri boating accident attorney to find out your rights to compensation under the law.
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