Although some scuba diving incidents are tragic, they can often be avoided. 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 from scuba dive accidents
According to a DAN report, environmental factors are a major factor in diving accidents. These factors included changes in visibility that could trap divers. Divers who are not physically fit or experienced also faced dangers due to changing currents and waves.
One of the first lessons that a diver should learn is to never hold their breath while underwater. Breathing, no matter how simple it may sound, helps diver calm nerves, concentrate and connect to their bodies. 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.
Unskilled and incorrect equipment use are the two main causes of diving injuries. These issues are usually caused by improper use of air and cylinder valves. If these problems occur, a diver should reconsider diving or abort the dive altogether.
Preventive steps
While scuba diving can be considered a safe sport, it is essential to do your preparation properly and follow all instructions. Small problems can be prevented from turning into major issues and causing an accident. Training and the proper equipment will make sure you do not suffer from a decompression injury, or a life-threatening emergency.
Divers should inspect their air tanks for leakages before diving. An open valve can prevent air flow and cause a diving accident. You should slowly open the valve to stop it from closing. This will prevent an excessive pressure from leading to overpressure. In addition, it can help avoid respiratory complications such as anoxia and gas narcosis.
Also, it is important to think about the environment in which your dive will take place. A diver's equipment may be pulled by turbid water. Strong underwater currents could also cause a diver to be separated from their boat cover. They may be stranded underwater. A poor visibility may cause the boat crew to miss them. Yellow flags are also a good idea for divers to use to draw attention to them. To signal their presence to others on shore, divers can use an EPIRB (personal submersible emergency oxygen radio) or a vhf radio.
Compensation for accident victims
Compensation may be available if you have been in an accident that involved diving. The amount of compensation you can claim will depend on the type and severity of the injury. If you were diving on a commercial dive ship, for example, you may be entitled to compensation for lost wages. You should contact an experienced attorney to learn more about the compensation you can receive.
The captain of the dive boat may be responsible if you are injured. If the captain was drunken or negligent, you might be able to sue them. If you are injured while diving, you may also be entitled to compensation if the boat was defective.