Chico-Paradise, CA Personal Injury Blog

In this busy boating season, it is important for Californians to be smart and safe when on the water. New state laws in effect for 2010 aim to improve boating safety, especially for younger boaters.

According to the California Department of Boating and Waterways, 67 percent of 2009 boating accidents were attributed to drowning. Eighty-four percent of those drowning victims were not wearing a life jacket. California's updated requirements for life jackets hopefully will reduce the number of these tragic deaths.

As many states have already acknowledged through legislation, the use of mobile phones while driving -- especially texting -- is incredibly dangerous. Especially for younger and inexperienced drivers, managing the tasks associated with driving a vehicle safely while talking or texting can be too much and lead to a car accident.

It is generally assumed that a handheld mobile phone is more dangerous than a hands-free one. Many laws only ban the use of handheld phones while driving. However, new statistics show that hands-free mobile phone use may be just as risky.

Teen drivers can be dangerous behind the wheel, generally due to lack of training and experience. It takes time to develop sufficient self-control to handle a motor vehicle properly and in varied conditions. Teen alcohol use adds further hazards on the road. If a teen gets into a drunk-driving accident, it can have deadly consequences for motorists and serious consequences for parents.

Teens involved in drunk-driving accidents face large fines, possible jail time, and will likely have their driver's license suspended or revoked. Parents and other guardians can also be subject to criminal prosecution in a growing number of states, including Kansas, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Texas. A Pennsylvania man allowed underage drinking at a party in his home, and three teens died in a car accident after the party. The man was sent to prison for involuntary manslaughter even though he did not drive the car or buy the alcohol.