boating accidents

Tips for Keeping Kids Safe on the Water

March 19, 2025 | Kearns Rotolo Law

If sailing is one of your family’s favorite activities, you’re probably starting to think about getting your boat out of dry dock and into the water. As captain of your boat, it’s your responsibility to avoid boating accidents and make sure everyone on board is familiar with boating safety rules and etiquette, especially the children.

Children who run on board or lean over the deck can quickly turn an enjoyable activity into a tragic event. For tips on keeping your young passengers safe and injury-free, and avoiding possible legal actions, read “Boating Safety – Kids On Board.”

Ahoy Boaters! NJ Has A Few New Laws for You

July 17, 2024 | Kearns Rotolo Law

Just as motorists are obliged to follow the rules of the road, boaters have laws to follow, too. For example, vessel operators can be cited if they fail to obey posted speed limits or adhere to right-of-way passing rules, or if they operate their vessels while under the influence, just like motorists can be. These laws and others like them are intended to help prevent accidents and keep the waterways safe for all to enjoy.

With summer now in full swing, there are plenty of opportunities to take to the water. Before you launch your boat, though, make sure you are up-to-date on all the rules affecting you, including two new laws recently passed in New Jersey regarding the use of boats and other personal watercrafts. To learn more, read “Two New Boating Laws in NJ You Absolutely Need to Know About.”

Tougher Training Requirements Needed for Safer Waterways

February 27, 2017 | The Victor Rotolo Law Firm

The recent tease of warm weather has left people dreaming about resuming their favorite outdoor activities. For many, that includes recreational boating activities like fishing, sailing and even kayaking. The U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has warned, however, that a rise in the number of recreational vessels sharing the waterways with commercial vessels has led to an increased risk of boating accidents.

To help lessen the risks, the NTSB strongly suggested that the U.S. Coast Guard require recreational boaters to undergo safety instruction that meets standards equivalent to those set by the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators. For more information on how the risk of accidents and injuries on our waterways has increased in recent years, read “Recreational Boaters Need Safety Training.”