There are lakes all across the United States and many beautiful lakes here in Missouri. The biggest lakes in the country are the Great Lakes, including Lake Michigan. Many particularly large bodies of water are notorious for experiencing numerous swimmer deaths every year due to riptides and other safety concerns.
However, given their size, they may not be as risky as people initially think. When looking at how dangerous different lakes are, there are many factors that matter, including the number of fatal incidents. Although people may find it surprising, researchers have claimed that the most dangerous lake in the country is actually right here in Missouri. Lake of the Ozarks is a famous lake that is a popular tourist destination. It is also considered one of the most, if not the most, dangerous lake in the country.
What researchers say about Lake of the Ozarks
According to an analysis of 20 years of lake fatalities looking at the number of deaths compared with the size of the body of water, the Lake of the Ozarks takes the top spot. With 33 deaths in lake accidents in just two decades, Lake of the Ozarks averages more than one fatality each year, all while being less than one-three-hundredth the size of Lake Michigan.
Other professional reviews have put named Lake of the Ozarks as the most dangerous lake for boating accidents specifically. Given its overall size, the lake has a much higher number of serious boating accidents and fatalities than other lakes. People shouldn’t necessarily avoid taking a trip to Lake of the Ozarks, but they should be aware that their risk of an incident may be higher there than at other lakes.
Many incidents that lead to a tragedy at Lake of the Ozarks involve drunk boating or other obviously dangerous behaviors. The people injured in such wrecks or those who lose loved ones in incidents out on Lake of the Ozarks or other bodies of water may be able to pursue a lawsuit. Filing a personal injury lawsuit can compensate those who have been negatively affected by the negligence or illegal activity of others during what should have been a fun vacation outing.