Drowning deaths occur with an alarming amount of frequency in the U.S. and abroad. In 2004, over 3,500 people lost their lives by drowning, which adds up to nearly 10 people per day. Those who live and work on or near the water are at risk even when the environment seems safe. Calm, serene mornings can turn into a nightmarish life or death struggle as heaving seas and gale-force winds can strike without warning.

Unfortunately, the elements are not the only danger awaiting those who work and play on the water. Dangerous working conditions, unsound safety features and general negligence by a boat’s officers and employees has led to the untimely passing of countless numbers of individuals over our country’s history. And, given the high volume of professional and commercial boaters on America’s waterways, those numbers will most likely increase over the next 5-7 years.

Tragic as it may seem, a vast number of drowning cases could have been avoided if proper safety equipment and practices were implemented. Contacting an experienced, compassionate and caring attorney will help you better understand what legal recourse is available, and the appropriate steps to take should you seek compensation from those who are responsible for the tragedy.