Boating is a popular form of recreation on Louisiana’s waterways. But boating can be dangerous, even if one’s boat is stationary in the water. A boat accident can result in significant property damage, serious injuries and even death. A recent fatal boat accident on the Cane River serves as a reminder of how a day of relaxation on the water can turn into a tragedy in an instant.
The victim, a 65-year-old Dry Prong man, was killed when his boat was struck by another vessel. The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries reported that the victim was fishing from the bow of his stationary boat when another boat came around a bend in the river. The other boat, operated by a 39-year-old man, struck the victim’s boat. The collision caused the victim to be thrown from his boat into the water.
The driver of the other boat immediately got into the water to try and help the victim. Unfortunately he was unable to save the man, who was declared dead at the scene of the accident. A woman in the victim’s boat did not suffer serious injuries. The LDWF says charges are pending, but they do not believe alcohol played a role in the tragedy.
When a loved one is killed in a boating accident, family members can be left not only grieving but looking for answers. If the accident was caused by the negligence of another boater, the next of kin can seek compensation in a wrongful death lawsuit. An experienced Louisiana boating accident lawyer can help the family evaluate their case and represent them throughout the legal process.
Source: Louisiana Sportsman, “Boating accident on Cane River kills Dry Prong man,” July 5, 2016