As temperatures rise, people across Ohio start looking for ways to enjoy summer weather. Many people head out to the lake. Whether they visit the beach on Lake Erie or a landlocked, smaller lake, they likely intend to relax. Sadly, the way that some people relax can cause harm to others.
A small percentage of those hoping to enjoy a trip to the beach end up dealing with serious consequences because of another person’s actions. Many people combine alcohol or other mind-altering substances with their aquatic recreation. Chemically-impaired boaters put themselves and everyone else at a lake at risk.
Impaired boating is illegal
State law in Ohio prohibits impaired boating just as it prohibits impaired driving. People shouldn’t attempt to operate marine vessels while under the influence of alcohol or other mind-altering substances.
Unfortunately, many voters do not follow those rules. They may assume that they are unlikely to encounter police officers enforcing the rules. Others overestimate their tolerance or underestimate the strength of the substances that they ingest. Those who boat after drinking or doing drugs expose themselves to prosecution risk and also open themselves up to financial liability.
Impaired boaters can cause collisions with other vessels. They can strike swimmers. Unlike those operating vehicles while under the influence, boaters may not have any liability insurance to cover the expenses they generate.
Those involved in drunk boating incidents may need to take legal action by filing a personal injury lawsuit against the intoxicated voter or other liable parties. Seeking compensation for medical expenses, property damage losses and even lost wages can help those harmed by drunk boaters secure economic justice.
