Blog Post

As summertime approaches, more and more people will take to the lakes and other waterways in California and Nevada. Boating in these parts is not just an occasional pastime; for some, no spring or summer season is complete without getting out on the water as often as possible.

While a day out on the water can represent freedom, adventure, and good times, it’s important not to forget the many dangers involved in boating. Knowing how most fatal boating accidents happen and what types of boats are the most risky can help you ensure a safe outing on the water.

How Common Are Fatal Boating Accidents?

According to the latest data from the United States Coast Guard, there were 529 fatal boating accidents across the U.S. in 2023, resulting in a total of 564 deaths. Although this number is all too high, the good news is that annual fatalities have steadily declined since 2020, which saw 767—the highest number on record.

State-specific data also reveals insights. For example, in 2023, California saw 30 fatal accidents, the lowest number recorded over an eight-year period. In Nevada, however, there were six fatal accidents in 2023, the highest number recorded over the same eight-year period.

But while these boating accident statistics are interesting, they’re not just numbers, they’re tragedies that can hit close to home. Each year, we see numerous accidents in popular boating spots like Lake Tahoe, where a 28-year-old perished in 2022.

How Do Fatal Boat Accidents Happen?

Data from the USCG shows that the primary cause of most fatal boating accidents is alcohol use, which led to 17% of all deaths in 2023. Consuming alcohol while out on the water is dangerous for boat operators and passengers alike. Passengers may take unnecessary risks, such as moving carelessly around an unstable vessel. On the other hand, intoxicated operators may speed, make unsafe maneuvers, or fail to see dangers in the water. All of these can lead to a person falling into the water.

Statistics show that most boating deaths (75%) are caused by drowning—and it isn’t just a risk for those who are under the influence. Even individuals who are sober and good swimmers can drown. Falling into cold water can shock the body, resulting in a sort of paralysis that makes it difficult for someone to save themselves. Victims who are struggling to stay afloat may not be able to call for help.

Failing to wear a life jacket is also a substantial contributing factor that raises the risk of accidental drowning. Of the 377 reported deaths by drowning nationwide in 2023, 319 of the victims were not wearing life vests.

What Types of Boating Accidents Cause the Most Fatalities?

The most common type of boating accident in the United States happens when one private recreational vessel collides with another. In 2023, this situation accounted for 1,053 accidents, or just over a quarter of all boating accidents recorded for that year, and 41 deaths. However, this was not the deadliest type of accident.

Instead, falling overboard was the single largest cause of boating deaths, with 139 deaths resulting from just 227 of these accidents. This type of accident is followed closely by capsizing—when a boat rolls over in the water—which led to a total of 132 fatalities across 234 recorded incidents.

What Types of Boats Are the Most Dangerous?

Certain watercraft are safer than others. While someone can fall overboard from any type of boat and drown, this is more likely to occur with open motorboats, canoes, and kayaks. In 2023, a total of 247 people died, including 149 by drowning, in incidents involving open motorboats. Meanwhile, 108 in canoes and kayaks died by drowning.

Open motorboats, canoes, and kayaks share some similarities that make them especially dangerous. When these vessels encounter choppy, rough waters, they are likely to rock, roll, or buck. Because occupants are not enclosed in a cabin (as they may be in larger boats), they are at risk of being thrown overboard.

In contrast, motorboats with cabins and pontoon boats were the two types of vessels involved in the fewest fatal boating accidents. Cabins and other enclosed structures protect passengers, making it less likely that they will fall into the water.

Pontoon boats are more stable than motorboats and canoes, which means they are less prone to capsizing due to rough water or another vessel’s wake. Also, the wide decks on these boats mean that passengers are less likely to be thrown overboard.

How to Prevent Boating Accidents: Safety Tips for Boaters

On the water, boating safety is everyone’s responsibility. You can have an enjoyable and safe boating experience, provided you and your passengers follow these simple safety tips:

• Everyone should wear a life jacket, no matter how good of a swimmer they are
• If you do consume alcohol, do so in moderation and never operate the boat under the influence of alcohol or drugs
• Obey all signs and warnings, such as no-wake zones and speed limits
• Keep an eye on your surroundings at all times when operating your boat
• Pay attention to the weather and head to shore if bad weather or storms develop

If you plan to go boating often, consider taking a boating safety course. These courses last only a few hours but can provide you with potentially lifesaving tips.