One Fatality, Five Injuries Result of San Diego Boat Accident
An 8-year-old boy died and at least 6 others were injured recently when a Coast Guard vessel crashed into the boat they were riding in. According to the Los Angeles Times, the boat accident happened in the San Diego Bay during the annual San Diego Bay Parade of Lights. 13 passengers were on board, and all those injured were rushed to the University of San Diego Medical Center, including the boy who later died. Other injuries have been reported to be serious and even life threatening.
The 33 foot patrol boat was headed toward a grounded vessel when the accident took place. According to eye witnesses, the Coast Guard vessel had its emergency lights on and was headed in the direction of downtown San Diego when it crashed into the recreational boat after turning. Boats are decorated with holiday lights and parade with other boats around the bay during The Parade of Lights event, but the boat involved in the accident was not a part of the parade, according to Parade Planning Committee representatives.
At the time of this accident, weather conditions were good. Why the Coast Guard vessel and pleasure boat crashed into each other is a mystery that is being investigated by the Coast Guard and the San Diego police. The NTSB will also start its own investigation into the crash to try to determine a possible cause.
For the family of the young boy who was killed, this is an emotional and tragic time – especially during the holidays. Our thoughts and prayers are with them, as investigators try to determine if the crash was related to the speed of the Coast Guard vessel. California personal injury lawyers know that in many boating accidents resulting serious injuries, speed is often a factor.
While everyone knows that speed causes many auto accidents, those who drive boats often have a feeling of freedom being out in the open water, and don’t regard speed as dangerous like they do in automobiles. Alcohol is another major player in boating accidents, especially during warmer months and holidays. Since the weather in Southern California is warm nearly year round, large numbers of people take to the water, and drinking is often included in the fun. Unfortunately, many don’t realize how much their judgment and response time are affected. Add to that the reckless abandonment many feel after a few drinks, and it can be a deadly combination.
The Reeves Law Group has offices across California, and is dedicated to representing personal injury victims, including victims of boating accidents. Please contact us for a free consultation at (800) 644-8000.