Inspect Steering System Periodically
Posted: Sun Jul 30, 2023 11:15 am
In the late afternoon of July 29, 2023 I witnessed a terrible accident on the Atlantic Intracoastal Water Way. Two apparently teenage boys were aboard a classic "Stauter-Built" wooden center console skiff proceeding on the [AIWW] at speed. Suddenly the boat made a 90-degree turn and slammed into the rocky shoreline. The boat remained afloat appearing to be partially wedged between the rocks. One boy was able to stand and shout for help, but first responders had already been summoned. His companion appeared to be comatose.
The boy continued to call for help and assumed the body signal for "help needed" when boats were passing. Approximately ten boats passed the scene before one noticed the boys after seeing hand signals from onlookers on the opposite shore. As the boat turned around to help, Gulf Shores Fire Department EMT's arrived in an SUV and rendered aid.
Eventually the EMTs managed to move the boys and themselves to the civilian boat and accompanied the boys to a nearby launch ramp to a waiting ambulance.
This morning (July 30, 2023) the boat had been recovered. I hate to think of the possible consequences if the accident had not been witnessed.
I suspect the accident was due to a failed steering system.
The boy continued to call for help and assumed the body signal for "help needed" when boats were passing. Approximately ten boats passed the scene before one noticed the boys after seeing hand signals from onlookers on the opposite shore. As the boat turned around to help, Gulf Shores Fire Department EMT's arrived in an SUV and rendered aid.
Eventually the EMTs managed to move the boys and themselves to the civilian boat and accompanied the boys to a nearby launch ramp to a waiting ambulance.
This morning (July 30, 2023) the boat had been recovered. I hate to think of the possible consequences if the accident had not been witnessed.
I suspect the accident was due to a failed steering system.