A boating accident claimed the life of a Missouri man on Monday. According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, 57-year-old Brian Ourth was operating a trolling motor when he fell off the boat in a Mississippi Valley diversion channel. The boat drove away leaving Ourth in the water approximately three miles from Cape Girardeau. His body was recovered about two hours after the accident, and he was pronounced dead at the scene of the accident. The accident is being investigated by the Cape Girardeau Police and the Missouri State Highway Patrol.
Boats and other watercraft are typically used for recreational purposes and not handled with as much care other motor vehicles. This is unfortunate because boating accidents can result in serious injury and death similar to auto accidents. Boating accidents occur over 5,000 times each year, and a vast majority of these accidents are preventable. Auto accidents and boating accidents are similar in the fact that both are typically caused by negligence. Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, distracted driving, and inexperienced driving, are all common causes of boat accidents. Sustaining an injury is devastating causing victims to likely face medical bills, lost wages, and emotional damages.
The experienced St. Louis boating accident attorneys at Meyerkord & Kurth will fight to recover the maximum compensation for your damages. Our attorneys have recovered $350 million in compensation for our clients and will work diligently on your case while being available to answer your questions or concerns. Contact us today for a free no-obligation consultation.