Scuba diving accidents are unfortunate but preventable. These accidents can be avoided by learning from them, taking preventive measures to minimize them, and getting compensated if they happen. Read on to learn more about preventing dive accidents and recovering from them. You have likely heard of dive accident victims after diving for many years.
Lessons learned from scuba diving accidents
In a recent DAN report, environmental factors were a significant factor in scuba diving accidents. These factors included changes in visibility that could trap divers. Changes in currents and waves pose dangers to divers who aren't physically or mentally fit.
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. It is possible to avoid common diving injuries by improving your breathing technique. Additionally, you should learn how to rescue your primary regulator and share air. This will improve your chances of survival during a dive.
The most common causes of diving accidents are improper use of equipment and inadequate skills. These issues are usually caused by improper use of air and cylinder valves. These problems can cause a diver to reconsider diving or abandon the dive.
Preventive steps
While scuba diving can be considered a safe sport, it is essential to do your preparation properly and follow all instructions. It is possible to avoid small problems becoming big problems that can lead to an accident. Training and the proper equipment will make sure you do not suffer from a decompression injury, or a life-threatening emergency.
Before diving, divers must check the valve in their air tanks. Partially open valves can cause restricted airflow to the regulator and lead to diving accidents. Slowly open the valve until it stops. This will prevent the valve from overpressurizing, which can lead to fatalities. It can also help prevent respiratory complications like anoxia or gas narcosis.
It is also important that you consider the environment in your dive area. Divers' equipment and fins may be pulled if the water is too turbid. A diver can be pulled from the boat cover by strong underwater currents. This could result in them being stranded on the water. The boat crew might not be able to see them if visibility is poor. To draw attention to themselves, divers should be wearing yellow flags. Divers can also use a personal EPIRB (emergency oxygen) submersible or vhf radio signaling their presence to shore.
Compensation for accident victims
If you are hurt in a dive accident, you might be eligible to receive compensation. The amount of compensation that you can claim depends on the type of accident you were involved in and how severe the injuries were. If you were diving on a commercial dive ship, for example, you may be entitled to compensation for lost wages. A qualified attorney should be consulted to find out more about the compensation that you could receive.
If you were injured on a dive boat, the captain of the vessel may be liable for the accident. You can sue the captain for drinking or negligence if they were at fault. If the boat is not in good condition, you could also be eligible for compensation if you are hurt while diving.