San Francisco boating accident law firm

Boating Fires: Preventing and Responding to Fires Afloat

June 14, 2016 | Gregory J. Brod

In Northern California, we are fortunate to have access to a wide range of beautiful bodies of water and boating is a favorite activity of many visitors and locals alike. Boating can be great fun for people of all ages, but it is important to remember that safe boating should be the very first priority anytime you set out on the water. Last month, our Oakland boating injury lawyer examined the causes of boating fires. This month, after reading about another dangerous fire on the water, our team returns to the topic of boat fires to provide advice on prevention and how to respond if you ever face a fire while afloat.

Woman Suffers Serious Burns in Bethel Island Boat Fire

According to the East Bay Times, a weekend boat fire in Bethel Island left a woman facing severe burns. Officials with the East Contra Costa Fire Protection District told reporters that a flash fire broke out aboard a boat near the 4500 block of South Willow Avenue at about 4:44 PM on Saturday. A woman and child were on board when the flash fire occurred. Fire officials have not yet identified the cause of the blaze, which was out by the time fire crews arrived on scene. The woman suffered severe burns and was taken by helicopter to the burn center at the University of California Davis. The report does not provide details on the minor’s condition, but does say the child was taken to Antioch’s Sutter Delta Hospital.

Fire on the Water: San Francisco Boating Accident Lawyer Examines the Threat of Boat Fires

May 20, 2016 | Gregory J. Brod

There’s a cruel irony to the thought of battling a fire when surrounded by nothing but water. Nonetheless, boating fires are a very real threat to life, health, and property. When boat fires result from unsafe products or from the negligence of an individual or entity, our San Francisco boating injury law firm is here to help.

Two Men and One Dog Rescued After Boat Fire in Half Moon Bay

The danger of a boat fire became all too real for two skilled Bay Area boaters this week. According to KPIX, a well-known fisherman was headed back to Half Moon Bay when he started to smell smoke. Another passenger and the fisherman’s dog were also on board. A Venture County Fire Department official told reporters that when the passenger went to investigate, a large amount of smoke came pouring out of the vessel’s engine compartment. The captain issued a mayday call and, after donning protective gear (yes, the dog had a life jacket too), the trio jumped into the water. Thankfully, another boater was in the area and picked them up shortly thereafter.

Pair of Fatal Jet Ski Accidents Serve as a Reminder of the Danger on the Water

July 28, 2015 | Gregory J. Brod

Enjoying time on the water is one of the great joys of life in California. With the ocean, numerous rivers, and thousands of lakes, water is (and we note the irony of this statement amid a long drought) everywhere. Jet skiing is one of many water-related activities that California residents and visitors enjoy. While it can be great fun, both riders and bystanders must remain aware of the danger of jet ski accidents. When a jet ski accident can be traced to a negligent individual or corporation, our Northern California jet ski accident law firm can help hold those responsible accountable for their actions and help the injured victim or grieving family recover monetary compensation.

Two Jet Ski Related Accidents Claim Lives on Bass Lake

Recently, two jet ski-related tragedies darkened the mood at Central California’s popular Bass Lake. On June 27, an accident left a 13-year-old boy dead and his 16-year-old aunt critically injured. According to the Madera County Sheriff’s Office and The Sierra Star, the pair were, along with the boy’s father, riding in an inner tube and being pulled by a pontoon boat when they were hit by a jet ski. The waverunner was piloted by a San Jose man with two riders on-board. Police do not believe alcohol was a factor, but the jet ski was allegedly outside of the three designated waverunner zones. The owner of a lakeside resort suggested the operator may not have understood that waverunners do not stop simply because the operator lets up on the gas.