Alcohol Is Contributing Factor in Northern California Boating Accident
| September 17th, 2012
September 17, 2012 A boating accident on a lake in Northern California last weekend resulted in the loss of two lives and left another man injured. According to The Sacramento Bee, officials believe alcohol was a contributing factor in the crash. Deputies with the Yuba County Sheriff’s Office say a 53-year-old Auburn, California, man is in custody on charges of manslaughter following the accident. Reports show the man was behind the wheel of a motorized boat on Englebright Lake, just outside Smartsville, around 6:30 p.m. when his vessel collided with a jet ski carrying the two victims. Further investigation found the driver of the boat to be under the influence of alcohol at the time of the crash. He was placed under arrest immediately after being discharged from the hospital, where he was treated for minor injuries. Investigators are still working to determine what else may have played a part in causing the deadly collision. Distraction or speed may have also played a part, considering experts believe the factors could be represented in as many as 60 percent of California Boating Accidents. The Alameda Personal Injury Lawyers with Berg Injury Lawyers believe the best way to prevent a deadly boating accident is to never get behind the wheel of a boat while under the influence of alcohol; however, wearing a life preserver at all times while on the water is a close second.
