We can help you claim
compensation following an accident
illness or injury - nationwide
Call: 0800 10 757 95
Being in or on the water is often a popular part of leisure activities but there are many dangers for the unwary and a holiday accident can sometimes result.
Power boats, either for hire by individuals or available for professionally-driven trips are becoming more widespread and now that rigid inflatable boats (RIBs) have become more sophisticated many of these can be found at seaside resorts and inland waters, offering a fun and fast way to enjoy the sea or a lake.
In some ways, driving a powerboat is easier than driving a car – there are fewer controls and less other "traffic" to worry about but there is no room for complacency when it comes to taking care of driver and passenger safety.
Engines and the craft to which they are fitted can range from the smallest motor fitted to the back of a rubber dinghy, to use as simple transport from ship to shore, through high-speed sports boats to large cruisers with space for eating and sleeping as well as sun bathing pushed through the water by twin-propeller high capacity diesel engines.
All come under the heading of power boats, capable of being operated by one person, and fuelled by diesel or similar petroleum-based oils. Modern systems are designed for ease of maintenance as well as handling so seem deceptively easy for anyone to take the helm.
However, many risks may become apparent, apart from the obvious ones engendered by being on the water, that is, changes in the weather and possibilities of drowning.
Using an engine means having a combustible mixture which could catch fire if an electrical starting fault occurs or there is a fuel leak. Fire at sea can cause the structure of the boat to be compromised and it may begin sinking as a result.
Other forms of mechanical failure, such as a steering problem, could leave the craft adrift without control or floating debris may hole the hull.
Because of the speed at which most powerboats are used, any sudden problem arising may lead to one or more of the occupants being thrown out and into the water, possibly resulting in impact injuries such as whiplash or head and spine injury because of the force with which the victim hits the sea.
Turning too fast for the boat's capabilities or running into an unexpectedly large wave may cause the boat to capsize with resultant potential for injury to all on board.
Experienced and professional powerboat owners realise these risks could occur and ensure they and any passengers are adequately equipped with lifejackets and, if speeds are likely to be particularly high, helmets.
If boats are being used for hire, the owners and managers have a duty of care towards staff and passengers and should take all precautions to ensure the safety of anyone using them.
In the UK safety standards for anyone wishing to apply for a licence to take passengers are extremely high and operators will be obliged to prove they have insurance and that members of staff are aware of the need to minimise risks. However, this may not be the case in other countries and travellers should be aware of the need to protect themselves from risk if they decide to seek the thrills and possible spills of riding in a powerboat.
YouClaim solicitors after a holiday accident
Going away on a trip should be enjoyable but if you or a loved one has been unfortunate to suffer a holiday accident and injury which was caused by the actions or neglect of someone else, you may have grounds for making a compensation claim.
Here at YouClaim we have personal injury solicitors who have many years' experience in helping people like you who have suffered harm and been awarded damages to compensate for their pain and suffering.
With supervision by the Solicitors Regulation Authority, you can be sure all our lawyers have the highest standards and will do their utmost to help you.
To find out if your situation is suitable for making a claim, we offer free advice on our phone line 0800 10 757 95 or you can contact one of our friendly legal staff via this internet page and someone will get back to you.
