Austin-area lakes are a big draw for summer fun lovers. So big that Texas ranks fifth in the country for most registered boats. Boaters and swimmers share the area and with so many people and vehicles on Central Texas lakes, accidents are bound to happen.
A big factor in many accidents is alcohol consumption. A bill passed in the 77th Legislative session put laws in place to punish drunk boaters.
According to the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators there were 41 boating-related fatalities in Texas in 2001. The U.S. Coast Guard received reports for a total of 6,419 recreational boating accidents in 2001. The national casualty data for 2001 shows 681 fatalities and 4,274 injuries. Of them, 498 boaters drowned. Life jackets could have saved the lives of approximately 420 boaters who drowned.
The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPW) and the Lower Colorado River Authority (LCRA) urge to people to familiarize themselves with the laws and safety precautions associated with water recreation, including personal watercraft. The laws and safety precautions page lists information pertaining to your boat's registration, title, and fees, required safety equipment, boater education requirements and how to safely operate your boat.
The four principles of safe boating are:
 | | Wear life jackets |
| | Educate yourself on boating safety |
| | Make sure your boat is a safe vessel |
| | Stay sober when boating |
The TPW also offers classes to educate boaters.
