Scuba diving accidents are unfortunate but preventable. It is possible to learn from these accidents, take preventive steps to avoid them, and receive compensation if you are in one. Read on to learn more about preventing dive accidents and recovering from them. You've likely heard the stories of divers who were injured in dive accidents after years of diving.
Lessons from scuba diving mistakes
Recent DAN reports revealed that environmental factors played a major role in the number of scuba diving accident. Rapid changes in visibility could trap divers, or deprive them from air. Problems with regulators and malfunctioning rebreather units were also factors. Divers who have never been diving before may be at greater risk from changing currents or waves.
An important lesson that divers should learn is to not hold their breath underwater. Breathing helps calm nerves, focus, and connects the diver with his or her body. Many common diving injuries can be avoided by learning to breathe properly and practicing it often. In addition, it's essential to learn how to share air and recover your primary regulator. This will increase your chances to survive 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.
Prevention measures
Scuba diving can be a very safe sport. However, it is important that you practice good preparation and follow all the instructions. Simple steps can help prevent minor problems from becoming serious and leading to an accident. Training and the proper equipment will make sure you do not suffer from a decompression injury, or a life-threatening emergency.
Divers need to check their air tanks before diving. Divers should check the valve on their air tanks before diving. A partially closed valve can stop air flow to regulators, which could cause an accident. When the valve stops, the diver should open it slowly. This will prevent overpressure from causing death. It can also help to avoid respiratory complications such a gas narcosis or anoxia.
It is also important to consider the environment in which you will dive. Turbid water can pull diver's equipment or fins out of the water. Strong underwater currents may also be able to separate a diver and the boat cover. They may be stranded underwater. The boat crew might not be able to see them if visibility is poor. Divers should always carry yellow flags in order to attract attention. Divers may also use a personal submersible EPIRB, or vhf Radio to signal their presence.
Compensation for accident victims
In some cases, compensation may be available for injuries sustained in a dive accident. The type of accident that occurred and the extent of your injuries will determine the amount of compensation you are entitled to. Compensation for lost wages may be available if the accident occurred while you were working on a commercial dive vessel. An experienced attorney can help you learn more about the possible compensation.
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 the boat is defective, you might also be entitled for compensation if your dive accident results in you being hurt.