Questions remain concerning the recent fatal Kaaawa kayaking accident. Two people died when the kayak capsized.
According to initial reports, the 63-year-old woman and 5-year-old boy drown. The boaters were taking part in a spring break excursion hosted by the Mid-Pacific Institute. The vessels flipped over when they were a short distance from shore. The victims included a camp counselor and one child. Two other young boys were on the kayak, and survived the incident. Neither of the victims was wearing a life jacket, and investigators note that no life vests were found at the scene or nearby.
Federal law provides that individuals under the age of 13 must wear a life jacket.
Further, Hawaii law sets forth numerous rules and regulations designed to protect the safety of boaters, both those in motorized and non-motorized water craft. Those in charge of supervising others must ensure that all safety requirements are followed. Similar child care groups that have water programs have noted the need for safety in such situations as water conditions can change in a matter of seconds, creating dangers.
The incident remains under investigation.
For more information concerning boating safety, or if you or a loved one has been harmed in a personal injury accident, please contact the dedicated Hawaii personal injury lawyers at Bostwick & Peterson, LLP for an immediate consultation.
