Boating Safety
Recreational boating is a fun hobby of nearly 100 million Americans, adding over $230 million to the economy annually (National Marine Manufacturers’ Association-nmma.org). However, boating can also be very dangerous, even for the most experienced boaters. Understanding the hazards of boating and helping clients reduce or eliminate risk is another value-added service of the professional insurance agent.
As of early 2026, there were over 11 million recreational boating vehicles registered in the United States, with another 3.6 million – mostly small unmotorized craft – unregistered. In calendar year 2024, the United States Coast Guard verified 3,887 accidents resulting in 556 deaths, 2170 injuries and over $88 million in property damage(uscgboating.org). Drowning is the leading cause of death in these accidents.
Education is key to boating safety. In fact, 45 states have educational requirements that must be met before you can operate a boat or other personal watercraft, such as a jet ski, in the state (boat-ed.com). Thirty-seven states require operator certification – proof of successful completion of a boating safety course – be carried in the vessel.
Alcohol is the main contributing factor in fatal boating accidents. Boating under the influence of alcohol or drugs is illegal in every state. Intoxicated passengers are also at a higher risk of falling out of the boat or becoming injured. Consuming alcohol is even more dangerous on water than on land, as factors such as wind and sun can cause impairment to happen more quickly. Impaired boaters risk loss of operator privileges, fines, and possible jail time. Leading causes for boating accidents in general (fatal and nonfatal) include equipment malfunction, operator inattention and inexperience, excessive speed, and improper lookout.
Approved personal floatation devices (PFDs) such as life jackets and life vests should be worn at all times, even by experienced swimmers. Accidents on the water can happen very quickly, leaving little or no time to retrieve life jackets that have been stowed under the seat, or wrapped in plastic. It is also a lot more difficult to put on a life jacket in the water, especially when you are disoriented, with wet heavy clothing. Jackets should be Coast Guard approved and sized appropriately for the wearer. The Coast Guard advises that over 80% of drowning victims were not wearing approved PFDs (uscgboating.org).
Special care must be taken with infants. Infants should be at least 18 pounds to wear an approved PDF, which should include head support, as the bobbing motion can injure their neck and head. “Floaties” and infant neck floats are not acceptable. Never strap a baby in a car seat, stroller or other carrier while on a boat, as these are not designed to float. Sunscreen should not be used on infants under 6 months old. Hypothermia is also a concern, as newborns cannot regulate their body temperature, and lose heat due to wind, water, or wet clothing. Significant heat is lost through the head, so keep it covered.
Safe boating practices encompass much more than just knowing how to operate the boat. Boaters’ skills need to include navigation, communication and life saving. Before going out on the water, do a safety inspection. Free inspections are offered by the United States Power Squadron (usps.org) and the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary (cgaux.org). They also offer boating education courses.
Be sure to carry flares. Flares should be checked and replaced if outdated to ensure they will work if and when you need them. Carry a cell phone in a watertight plastic bag. Calls for help can be made without taking the phone out of the bag. When there is an accident, it is usually advisable to stay with the boat. The boat provides some flotation and is easier to be seen by potential rescuers than you are.
Boating should be a fun activity. Extra care should be taken to prevent tragedy. Helping clients recognize the hazards and take appropriate precautions is a sign of the true insurance professional.
This article is for educational and discussion purposes only and it is not insurance or legal advice and should not be relied upon when making insurance or legal decisions. Nothing herein shall be construed to constitute a legal or underwriting opinion. Nothing herein shall be construed as offering any political, social, or public policy opinion by the author or MSO. Neither the author nor MSO are responsible for errors in, or the accuracy or currentness of, the article.
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