The Lake of the Ozarks in Missouri is one of the most popular man-made lakes in the United States. An estimated twelve million people visit every year. Due to its popularity among boaters, the Lake of the Ozarks often has crowded waters, which may heighten the chances of accidents.
Lake of the Ozarks’ serpentine form and its finger lakes make it a very hazardous body of water. Underwater hazards and unpredictable water levels are big problems for boaters who are not familiar with the region. The finger lakes provide risky blind spots for boaters on the main strip and those attempting to merge into the larger body of water.
Risky boating behaviors can cause accidents
There are certain risky behaviors that can quickly lead to serious or even fatal accidents on the Lake of the Ozarks. These include:
- Operating a boat while intoxicated. Consuming alcoholic beverages while driving a boat might compromise a person’s judgment and coordination. It is against the law to operate a boat while intoxicated, and doing so puts everyone on the water in danger.
- Congested waterways. The Lake of the Ozarks faces significant safety concerns due to heavy boat traffic, which can lead to collisions and hazardous situations. Congestion is worsened by the lake’s popularity among both locals and visitors from all over the globe.
- Dangerous wakes. Tourists often utilize high-speed powerboats to explore the Ozarks, but the dangers posed by their wakes are substantial. Due to the instability caused by these wakes, smaller boats are likely to capsize.
Boating on the Lake of the Ozarks can be risky, but it can also be enjoyable if you refrain from driving after drinking, wear a life jacket and maintain a reasonable speed. However, seek legal assistance if you or a loved one is injured in a boating accident on the lake.