Unfortunately, diving accidents can happen but they can be prevented. It is possible to learn from these accidents, take preventive steps to avoid them, and receive compensation if you are in one. You can learn more about how you can prevent diving accidents and how to get help after one. You've likely heard the stories of divers who were injured in dive accidents after years of diving.
Lessons from scuba diver accidents
DAN recently reported that environmental factors were major contributors to scuba divers' accidents. These factors included changes in visibility that could trap divers. Divers with limited experience and fitness are also at risk due to the changing currents.
A diver must learn that they should never hold their breath underwater. Breathing is as simple as it seems. It helps calm nerves and concentrate the diver. You can avoid many common diving injuries by practicing your breathing skills regularly. Also, learn how share air and recover your primary regulator. You will have a better chance of making it through a dive.
Inadequate skills and improper equipment are the most common causes for diving accidents. These problems usually involve incorrect use of the air cylinder valves. If you experience these problems, it is best to either reconsider your dive or cancel it entirely.
Preventive measures
Scuba diving can be a very safe sport. However, it is important that you practice good preparation and follow all the instructions. Small problems can be prevented from turning into major issues and causing an accident. Proper equipment and training will ensure you don't suffer a decompression or other life-threatening injuries.
Before diving, divers should check the valve on their air tanks. Partially open valves can cause restricted airflow to the regulator and lead to diving accidents. To prevent this, the diver should slowly open and close the valve until it stops. This procedure will prevent an overpressure, a condition that may lead to death. It can also be used to prevent respiratory complications, such as anoxia (gas narcosis) and other serious conditions.
You should also consider the environment where you are going to dive. The water may pull the equipment or fins of a diver if it is murky. Strong underwater currents could also cause a diver to be separated from their boat cover. They may be stranded underwater. In poor visibility, they may not be seen by the boat crew. To draw attention to themselves, divers should be wearing yellow flags. You can also use your personal submersible EPIRB or vhf to alert others to your presence.
Compensation for accident victims
If you are hurt in a dive accident, you might be eligible to receive compensation. You can get compensation depending on what type of accident occurred and how severe your injuries were. You may also be eligible to receive compensation for lost wages if you were on a commercial diving ship. To learn more about what compensation you may be eligible for, consult an experienced attorney.
The captain of the boat might be liable if you were hurt in a diving boat accident. The captain may be responsible if you are injured due to alcohol consumption or negligence. You may be entitled to compensation for injuries sustained while diving if the boat is defective.