People drinking alcohol on a boatTexas Drunk Boating Accident Injury Lawyers  

With more than 7,000 lakes across the Lone Star State, boating is a popular activity for people, whether to escape scorching summer temperatures or to enjoy the beauty of the great outdoors. However, did you know that Texas ranks among the top five states for alcohol-related boating accidents that involve serious injuries or have fatal consequences? In fact, the Lone Star State averages nearly 13 drunk boating incidents for every 100,000 registered watercrafts, according to a report from the United States Coast Guard.

While the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department reports that boating accidents in the state are at a 30-year high, drunk boating accidents are preventable. If you have been hurt or had a loved one pass away because of a boating accident involving alcohol, our team of Texas boating accident attorneys at The Button Law Firm can help you get justice and the compensation you deserve and keep others safe while enjoying Texas waterways.

How Do Drunk Boating Accidents in Texas Happen?

Texas has relaxed boating laws, making it easy for anyone—with or without experience—to operate a boat. Did you know Texans who are born before Sept. 1, 1993, are not required to complete any education courses, go through any training, or obtain a license before operating a boat? Also, a 13-year-old is allowed to operate a vessel with more than a 15-horsepower motor. Add alcohol into the mix and the results are not pretty.

Drunk boating accidents can happen when a boat operator has been drinking and is unable to properly navigate the boat or react to changing conditions on the water. The effects of consuming alcohol combined with the Texas sun can impair judgment, coordination, and reaction time, making it difficult for even the most experienced boater to safely operate the watercraft.

Just like driving a car while inebriated, drinking while boating can have lasting consequences for the passengers in the vessel as well as other innocent people enjoying the lake.

Injuries Caused by Drunk Boating Accidents in Texas

Boats traveling at high speeds, along with the little protection that watercrafts offer, can result in serious injuries. Sadly, the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department announced that boating accident fatalities have increased 45% and overall injuries from boating accidents are up 64% since 2019.

Other types of injuries that you may experience from drunk boating accidents:

Children involved in drunk boating accidents are likely to suffer more severe injuries than adults due to their smaller size and lack of experience in the water. In fact, 76 Texas children drowned in boating accidents alone last year, according to the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services.

How Can Drunk Boating Accidents in Texas Be Prevented?

Drunk boating accidents are easy to prevent. The most effective way to avoid drunk boating accidents is to stay sober while operating any watercraft. If you plan on drinking while on a boat, plan ahead and designate a sober operator who is knowledgeable and can safely navigate the vessel.

A few other ways to keep passengers safe while boating if alcohol is involved:

  • Have all passengers wear life jackets to prevent drownings in the event of an accident. Texas Parks and Wildlife cited drowning as the most common cause of boating-related deaths.
  • Avoid boating at night when visibility is limited
  • Check the weather before operating a boat, especially if you plan to drink with friends. Situations on bodies of water can quickly turn dangers—sober or not.

How The Button Law Firm Can Help After an Injury Caused by a Drunk Boating Accident in Texas

Our knowledgeable and compassionate Texas boating accident injury attorneys at The Button Law Firm are dedicated to holding negligent boat drivers and operators accountable for unsafe conditions that harm your or your child. We will advocate for you and your family so that you can focus on healing from any injuries and move forward. Our attorneys at The Button Law Firm are recognized on the prestigious Texas Super Lawyers list and are located in Dallas, Houston, and Midland. Call us at 214-699-4409 or fill out a contact form for a free consultation.  

Frequently Asked Questions About Claims for Injuries Resulting from Drunk Boating Accidents

Is there a time limit to file a claim?

In Texas, the person who was injured because of a drunk boating accident has two years to file a claim. In the event of a fatal drunk boating accident, the immediate family members of the deceased have two years to file a claim. There are some exceptions to this time limit, so contact our legal team today at 214-699-4409 or fill out a contact form, and we can determine how the legal statutes impact your case.

How much does it cost to file a claim?

At The Button Law Firm, we don’t charge you or collect any upfront fees to get started on your case. We work on contingency. This way, you can focus on healing from your injuries while we focus on advocating and fighting for you and your family. Call us at 214-699-4409 or fill out a contact form to get started.     

Who do you represent?

We advocate for adults and children in Texas who have been injured in serious boating accidents involving intoxicated drivers. With offices in Dallas, Houston, and Midland, we are ready to help you and your family anywhere in the Lone Star State. 

How can I file a claim?

Simply contact our team by calling 214-699-4409 or filling out a contact form, and we can determine the best way to help you. 

Why should I work with The Button Law Firm?

We are dedicated to helping adults and children in Texas who have been seriously injured. Our Texas Super Lawyer-rated attorneys are ready to listen to you, advocate for you, and help you hold negligent parties accountable. With offices in Dallas, Houston, and Midland, see what past clients have to say about working with us on their legal matters.

Russell Button
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Dallas, Houston, and Midland Texas trial and personal injury lawyer dedicated to securing justice for clients.