Labor Day weekend is right around the corner, and for many locals and tourists in South Carolina, that means time on the water. From Lake Murray to the Charleston Harbor and the Intracoastal Waterway, our state is a haven for boaters. But with more people heading out on the water, accidents spike during this holiday weekend.
Why Boating Accidents Surge on Labor Day
Labor Day weekend is one of the busiest boating holidays of the year. More boats. More alcohol. More distractions. Unfortunately, that adds up to more risk.
According to the U.S. Coast Guard’s 2024 Recreational Boating Statistics, alcohol is the leading known contributing factor in fatal boating accidents. In cases where the primary cause was identified, alcohol was responsible for 20% of all boating-related deaths. On top of that, the top five primary contributing factors in boating incidents were operator inattention, failure to maintain a proper lookout, operator inexperience, machinery failure, and violations of navigation rules.
Take advantage of South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) services. Before boats hit the water, their boating safety and enforcement officers will be on hand to perform brief but comprehensive checks for essential equipment and valid registration. Rather than issuing tickets, officers will give boaters the chance to resolve any issues on the spot during these free pre-launch inspections.
What Happens if I Get into a Boating Accident?
If you or a loved one is injured in a boating accident due to another person’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation. Boat operators can be held liable for:
- Operating under the influence
- Reckless or inattentive driving
- Speeding in no-wake zones
- Failing to provide proper safety gear
At Bringardner Injury Law Firm, we fight to protect victims and hold negligent boaters accountable. Our team will guide you through every step of the process.
This Labor Day, let’s keep South Carolina’s waterways fun and safe for everyone. If you ever need us, we’re just a phone call away.
Wishing you smooth sailing.
