With the summer months approaching, this likely means that those living in coastal communities are bringing out their boating gear ready to hit the waters with their friends and family. While this can be an extremely fun time to enjoy, it is also vital that those transporting boats implement the proper towing and trailer safety procedures. It is not uncommon that traffic accidents may occur as a result of these boats not being properly attached to the vehicles, and it can result in tragic accidents with causing injury or death.
According to various studies, since 1975, there have been over 16,000 fatalities as a result of boat trailer accidents, 345 of which were just in 2011. The cause of these accidents? Unsecured trailers on their way to the waters. Just last summer a devastating incident occurred here in North Carolina which injured nine people.
A family was leaving their summer rental home and heading to the beach with a pontoon on the trailer behind their vehicle. Sadly it was not properly connected and the pontoon was detached from the trailer and went into oncoming traffic. Among the nine people injured was a 10 year old girl who incurred a catastrophic brain injury, she is still in recovery this day.
During these summer months it is important to be aware of the possible dangers when on the road, particularly if you are hauling a heavy load such as a boat. Unfortunately, no matter how safe you are as a driver, accidents do still happen.
In the event that you or a loved one are a victim of a similar incident, please do not hesitate in contacting a Raleigh personal injury lawyer from the Whitley Law Firm to discuss taking legal action. We will do whatever we can to help you receive the compensation you deserve after your injury!
