Several people were seriously injured in a boating accident at Lake Havasu near California Cove in Needles, the San Bernardino Sun reports. San Bernardino sheriff's officials said two Chino residents -- 39-year-old Lenny Clem and 41-year-old James McCarthy, were found trapped in a large ski boat after it crashed the night of April 16, 2010. McCarthy and two passengers from the boat were transported to an area hospital for treatment of fractures and other serious injuries.

Clem and two other passengers, whose injuries were considered life-threatening, were airlifted to trauma centers. Officials say McCarthy was driving the 21-foot Shockwave ski boat toward a launch ramp and struck the shoreline. Authorities believe alcohol may have been involved.

My heart goes out to the injured victims especially the critically injured victims. I hope none of them has suffered catastrophic injuries and that all of them make a quick and complete recovery. Please keep these injured victims in your thoughts and prayers.

Boating Accident Statistics and Causes

Boating and water accidents are quickly increasing and most of them tend to involve recreational vessels such as personal watercraft. With Memorial Day and summer approaching, it is important to take a hard look at the most common causes of these highly preventable accidents. According to the U.S. Coast Guard's 2007 boating statistics, the number of boating-related deaths fell from 710 in 2006 to 685 in 2007. But the number of boating accidents increased from 4,967 to 5,191.

Also, the number of boating related personal injury accidents rose from 3,474 to 3,673 and damages increased from $43 million to $53 million during that period. The most common causes of boating accidents are alcohol use, careless or reckless operation, passenger behavior and excessive speed. Also, according to this report, more than two-thirds of all fatal boating accident victims drowned.

Claim for Compensation

In this particular case, if McCarthy was operating the ski boat under the influence, he could be held liable for the serious injuries caused to the others. Injured victims in such cases would be well-advised to contact a reputed California personal injury lawyer who is experienced and has an excellent track record with boating accident cases. Victims could seek compensation to cover medical expenses, lost earnings, hospitalization, surgery and even long tern care costs. The best personal injury law firms will always offer a free and comprehensive consultation to injured victims and their families.

What are some of the tips you would offer to boaters to be safe on the water?

The BISNAR|CHASE personal injury law firm is not representing any of the parties mentioned in this article at the time the article was posted. Our information source is cited in the article. If you were involved in this incident or a similar incident and have questions as to your rights and options, call us or another reputable law firm. Do not act solely upon the information provided herein. Get a consultation. The best law firms will provide a free consultation. We provide a free, confidential consultation to not at fault persons named in this article. The free consultation offer extends to family members as well.

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