TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) - A report shows the number of boating accidents in Florida sharply increased in 2015 over 2014, despite there being a 25 percent decrease in fatalities.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission says in a statement Wednesday that the 2015 Boating Accident Statistical Report reveals the state had 737 boating accidents last year. That's 103 more accidents as compared to 2014.
Fifty-five people died in 2015 as a result of those accidents.
FWC spokesman Capt. Tom Shipp says many of the accidents could have been prevented if boaters had paid closer attention to their surroundings, maintained proper lookout, and if everyone had been wearing a life jacket.
The commission is responsible for reviewing, analyzing and compiling boating accident data for the state. Its report details boating accidents and their causes.
