Boat Collision in Hingham Bay: Investigation Underway
On a Friday afternoon in Hingham Bay, a serious boat collision occurred, leaving two people injured. The incident, confirmed by fire officials, involved a sailboat and a motorboat. SKY7-HD, flying above the scene, captured the aftermath, showing a damaged sailboat partially submerged in the water alongside the motorboat. The injured individuals were struck by the motorboat’s propeller, and they were promptly transported to South Shore Hospital. Due to the severity of their injuries, they were later transferred to Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston.
Multiple authorities responded to the scene, including police boats, a towboat, and the U.S. Coast Guard. Firefighters in Weymouth stood by on shore as the injured passengers were brought over. The investigation into the cause of the collision is currently underway, with the Massachusetts Environmental Police and Weymouth police leading the efforts.
One boater, Dennis Hines, explained the general rule of right-of-way between sailboats and powerboats. He emphasized that when a sailboat is under sail, it always has the right of way over a powerboat. This is primarily due to the difference in maneuverability between the two types of vessels. Sailboats rely on wind power and have limited control over their direction, while powerboats can navigate more easily. It is crucial for powerboats to yield to sailboats to prevent collisions and ensure the safety of all individuals on the water.
Hines also noted that collisions involving boats are uncommon, especially at high speeds. Typically, collisions are low-speed incidents, making this particular incident more concerning. The damaged boats were eventually towed to shore for further investigation.
As the investigation continues, authorities will gather more information to determine the exact cause of the collision. For now, no additional details have been released. It is essential to stay tuned to reliable news sources, like 7NEWS, both on-air and online, for the latest updates on this developing story.
Boating accidents serve as a reminder of the importance of safety measures and adherence to maritime regulations. Whether enjoying recreational boating or engaging in professional activities on the water, individuals must prioritize education, awareness, and responsible behavior. By doing so, boaters can help prevent accidents and ensure a safer maritime environment for all.
