Recreational Boating Accident Statistics and Trends

In 1960, as part of a Federal Boating Act of 1958 mandate, the U.S. Coast Guard began publishing relevant statistical data on recreational boating accidents, injuries, and fatalities. This article describes how analysis of this information helps shape the strategic plan for the U.S. Coast Guard National Recreational Boating Safety Program. Sections in the article are devoted to explaining the process for acquiring the data, improving data quality and coverage, trends in fatality rates, and other factors influencing recreational boating injuries and fatalities in the United States.