The leading causes of boating accidents involve inadequate operator training, operator negligence, intoxication, poorly maintained boats or safety components, faulty boat parts, and obstructions. After an accident, injury victims or their representatives should abide by protocols to maintain their right to recovery. Some common steps include reporting the incident to the Coast Guard or law enforcement, obtaining eyewitness testimony, receiving medical treatment, requesting the relevant records, photographs of the scene or vessel, and obtaining insurance documents.