Attorney
Did you know that the Fourth of July is one of the busiest times of year for boating? As the holiday falls on a Saturday this year, depending on the weather, we expect many people to be enjoying activities along the coast and nearby lakes. 
If you plan to celebrate the Fourth of July on a boat this year, make sure you take safety precautions—the American Boating Association says that the holiday is always one of the most deadly periods for boating.
The U.S. Coast Guard offers the following safety tips for boaters this Fourth of July:
- Always wear a life jacket (80 percent of people who perish in boating accidents are not wearing life jackets)
- Make sure all of the equipment on your boat is working properly including items that may help you after dark or on rough waters
- Be prepared for emergencies by having flares, first aid kits and radios ready
- Avoid drunk boating
- Let friends know about your journey plans prior to a leave
- Stay aware of other watercraft that may move slower including jet skis, fishing boats and pontoons on the water
- Only allow people who are licensed to operate watercrafts
Each year, more than 4,000 boating accidents occur in the United States, leading to hundreds of deaths and thousands of injuries. Make sure you take safety precautions before you partake in any boating activities.
Contacting an Attorney Following a Fourth of July Boating Accident
If you have been injured or have had a loved one killed in a recreational boating accident, speak to our Maryland attorneys. We can determine who was responsible for your pain and suffering.
We can hold a boat owner and/or operator liable, in addition to handling difficult items that may come up during your recovery process including questions about insurance.
Remember, boat owners have a duty to make sure their vessels are safe. Enjoy your Fourth of July!
Koonz, McKenney, Johnson & DePaolis L.L.P.
Source: https://americanboating.org/safety-danger-ahead.asp