A fishing boat entered the restricted waterway around New York’s La Guardia Airport and ran into a light pole on one of the runway extensions. The Port Authority Police Department could see the stranded craft via surveillance cameras, but could not respond because their patrol boats had been docked for the night.

The NYPD Harbor Unit was dispatched to investigate, but took almost 30 minutes to reach the marooned boat, where they found the 51-year-old captain and his two passengers extremely inebriated.

The vessel itself was impaled on a light pole. The three irresponsible boaters suffered minor injuries but were basically unscathed. The ship’s captain was arrested and charged with boating under the influence.

Alcohol abuse remains the leading cause of boating accidents, accounting for hundreds of injuries and deaths each year.

Drinking and boating is a lethal combination. Alcohol slows reaction time and clouds concentration, and can create serious problems with vision, balance and coordination.

Avoid alcohol at the helm: boaters need to be alert and sober to maintain responsiveness to other vessels, water, weather conditions and important markers. Additionally, a boat operator needs balance and coordination to steer the vessel effectively.

Have you been injured by a drunk boater? If so, a Boston maritime attorney can help you retrieve the compensation you need for medical expenses, lost wages as well as pain and suffering.

To learn more about drunk boating accidents and injuries or to discuss your situation with a qualified attorney, call our office today to schedule a free consultation.

Latti & Anderson LLP – Boston maritime trial lawyers