HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — For starters, just like busy roadways are no place for a new driver, the same goes for busy waterways.
"If you're a new vessel operator, this is not going to be the time for you to take your vessel on the road on the water and try to learn we want to encourage you to take some safety courses to get you kind of more comfortable with operating a vessel," said ALEA Trooper Brandon Bailey.
One of the other factors that play a large role in boating accidents is alcohol.
"Boating under the influence is zero tolerance," said Bailey.
If alcohol is present on a boat, having a sober driver is vital and could be a matter of life and death.
"Get you a designated driver or friend is going to be on the boat with you. That way you know you'll be safe and people around you safe as well," Bailey.
On the flip side, one thing you should always have on a boat are PFDs or personal floatation devices.
"Have those on your kids, have them on you and have extra on a boat as well," said Bailey.
Lastly, going back to the idea that roadways and waterways are similar, just like speeding while driving is dangerous... So is speeding while boating.
"You're not the only one on the water. There are other people around you, you have to consider, for instance, is when you speed you create more waves and stuff. We want to encourage people not to operate your vessel close to swimmers, close to boats or just around other boats," said Bailey.