Tragically, a 5-year-old girl was killed in a recreational boat accident near Austin, Texas on the Fourth of July, and her family thinks a vessel malfunction may have played a role in her death.
According to KXAN-TV, a water ski pole that was pulling tubers aboard a boat on Lake Travis struck the victim in the head prior to her death. Because of witness statements, the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department is investigating the incident as a boat malfunction. It is unclear if the family owned the boat or rented it.
“We hit a really hard wave and the pole actually came out of its hole and hit her in the back of the head,” the victim’s mother told KXAN.
Following the girl’s death, the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department released safety information for boaters, asking them to secure items aboard vessels to avoid injury accidents. Tips included:
- Store any loose items in proper storage locations
- Make sure you have your safety equipment readily accessible
- Know where you are and how to get a hold of emergency personnel
Our Maritime Attorneys Can Help You Recover Following a Boat Malfunction
If you are injured in a boating accident because of an equipment malfunction or your loved one is killed, speak to our maritime attorneys about having the incident investigated. If a feature aboard a boat fails or is defective, you may be entitled to damages if you are harmed, as you may be able to hold the boat or part manufacturer liable, as well as the owner of the vessel.
The safety tips listed above are wise for recreational boaters nationwide. Our lawyers represent boat accident victims from all over the United States.
In the video above, attorney Carolyn Latti discusses her passion for maritime law, and helping victims and their family members. Contact us by calling the number located on this page or filling out the free online review form.
Latti Associates LLC – Nationwide Maritime Attorneys
Source: http://kxan.com/2015/07/07/family-of-5-year-old-girl-killed-on-boat-remembers-loved-one/