I spent most of my summers on the lake growing up. I will never forget the freedom of being out on the lake, able to go about anywhere I darn well please. Skiing, inner tubing, and wakeboarding were just a part of everyday summer life. But part of my love of the lake was the mystery and danger of the lake.
The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency has been keeping statistics on boating incidents and promoting safety since 1965. According to them, the most dangerous time and activities on the lake are as follows:
- The most common type of boat involved in an incident is an open motorboat.
- The most common age of a boat operator involved in an incident is a driver between the ages of 41-45.
- The most likely size of the boat is between 16-26 feet in length.
- The most likely cause of collision is a collision with another vessel while recreationally cruising.
- The most common cause of these types of incidents is failure of the driver to watch where they are going.
- The most likely time to be involved in a collision is on a Saturday and between the hours of Noon and 4 p.m.
- The body of water with the most incidents was Chickamauga Lake with 14 total incidents in 2019.
- Rented or borrowed vessels were used in 15% of the incidents in 2019.
- Jet Skis were most likely to be involved in an incident on Dale Hollow Lake, Kentucky Lake, and Old Hickory Lake.
- The most common age group for a Jet Ski incident is 12-15, 21-25, and 51-55 years of age, each age group having 3 incidents each.
- The number of whitewater fatalities in 2016 was 11.
- Recreational paddle craft fatalities was 2.
- The number of Boating Under the Influence/Boating While Intoxicated (BUI/BWI) arrests was 62.
The lake is a beautiful place to be, but it holds danger and must be respected. If you or someone you care about is injured on our lakes in Tennessee, please call GriffithLaw to discuss your case. We are here to help.
Call or text (615) 807 7900 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
