Stay Safe on the Water: Boating Accidents and Tips for Freehold Residents
Posted on: July 25, 2025
Boating is a favorite pastime for many in and around Freehold, especially during the warmer months when local lakes and coastal waters come alive. But what many people forget is that boating comes with serious responsibilities—especially when it comes to safety. Unfortunately, boating accidents are more common than people realize, and they often involve alcohol, excessive speed, or simply poor judgment.
Why Are Boating Accidents So Common?
Unlike driving a car, operating a boat doesn’t always require a high level of training or experience. Combine that with open water, high speeds, and summer crowds, and you’ve got a recipe for danger. Some of the most common causes of boating accidents include:
- Boating Under the Influence (BUI): Just like with cars, it is illegal—and extremely dangerous—to operate a boat under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Yet, many people mistakenly assume the rules are more relaxed on the water. They aren’t. Impairment reduces your reaction time, increases risky behavior, and makes it harder to respond in emergencies.
- Speeding: High-speed boating might seem thrilling, but it dramatically increases the risk of a collision. Boats don’t have brakes like cars, and visibility can be limited depending on the water conditions. Speeding also makes it harder to spot swimmers, kayakers, or unexpected obstacles in the water.
- Inexperienced Operators: Many boating accidents are caused by people who simply aren’t familiar with how to safely operate their vessel. They may not understand right-of-way rules, how to dock safely, or how to react in an emergency.
What You Can Do to Stay Safe
Boating safely starts with awareness and preparation. Whether you’re planning a day trip or heading toward the Jersey Shore, keep these key safety tips in mind:
- Never Drink and Boat: Designate a sober captain. Boating under the influence is just as dangerous—and illegal—as drunk driving.
- Know the Local Laws: New Jersey has specific laws for boat operation, including speed limits, boating licenses, and safety equipment requirements. Make sure you’re familiar with them before hitting the water.
- Wear a Life Jacket: Everyone on board should have access to a life jacket. Better yet, wear it. Accidents happen quickly, and life jackets save lives.
- Watch Your Speed: Stay within posted speed limits and adjust your speed based on the water conditions, traffic, and visibility.
- Take a Boating Safety Course: If you’re new to boating or haven’t been on the water in a while, taking a certified safety course can teach you the essentials and keep you (and your passengers) safer.
- Keep a Lookout: Always keep an eye out for swimmers, other boats, jet skis, and floating debris. Assign a second person to act as a spotter if possible.
- Check the Weather: Conditions on the water can change fast. Avoid boating in bad weather and always monitor forecasts before setting out.
Injured in a Boating Accident in Freehold? You’re Not Alone.
Boating accidents can lead to serious injuries, from head trauma and broken bones to drowning or near-drowning incidents. If you’ve been injured on the water due to someone else’s negligence—whether it was a drunk boater, an inexperienced operator, or an unsafe rental company—you may be entitled to compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
At Ellis Law, we help victims of boating accidents throughout Freehold and the surrounding areas understand their legal options and fight for the justice they deserve.
Call Our Freehold Boating Accident Lawyers at Ellis Law Today for a Free Consultation
Hurt in a boating accident? Don’t navigate the legal waters alone. Contact our Freehold boating accident lawyers at Ellis Law today to speak with an experienced attorney who understands boating injuries and how to protect your rights. Call 732-308-0200 or complete our online form for a free consultation. Located in Freehold, New Jersey, we serve clients in Asbury Park, East Brunswick, Toms River, Middletown, Jersey City, Long Branch, Neptune, Hudson County, Union County, Essex County, Monmouth County, Marlboro, and Ocean County, as well as Brooklyn and New York City.
