Capsizing is the overturning of a boat, often unexpectedly, due to factors such as overloading, improper weight distribution, or encountering severe weather conditions. This situation places individuals in the water, potentially injured or disoriented, and often far from safety. A common example is a small fishing boat becoming unstable and flipping over in rough seas.
Understanding the primary causes of boating fatalities is crucial for promoting boater safety and minimizing tragic incidents. Awareness campaigns, enhanced safety training programs, and stricter enforcement of regulations related to boat capacity and operation can significantly reduce the risk. Historically, analyzing accident data has led to improved boat designs and more effective safety equipment.