Boating-related deaths and accidents have declined in the state, but still lead the nation’s statistics

GAINESVILLE, Fla. (WCJB) – A recently released 2023 boating accident statistics report shows there were 659 boating accidents in Florida last year, 76 fewer than in 2022.

According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission report, there were 59 fatalities in the accidents, six fewer than the previous year. However, Florida again topped the nation in both statistics.

Monroe County, which includes the Florida Keys, had the most boating accidents last year, while most deaths occurred in Miami-Dade County. Drowning was the leading cause of death, according to the report.

FWC official Chris Boley says boat captains must always be aware of their surroundings. “You don’t know if the boat next to you is someone who rented it for the day and is there for the first time, or if it’s a commercial fisherman who has thousands of hours of experience on the water. So you have to be extra vigilant and make sure you maintain the necessary attention and watch for any factors that could lead to hazards or a boating accident.”

In addition to the fatalities, another 408 people were injured in boating accidents last year. There are over a million boats registered in Florida.

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