I've never wore one in the boat. Ever try fishing with one of those things on.
I'll wear one jetskiing though.
BTW, can you post the link to the story if there is one yet.
In New York State, you don't have to wear a life jacket unless you are under 12.
They did have enough life jackets for everyone, but many did not choose to wear them. This boat travels VERY slowly, & no one expected this to happen. I believe the boat rode over a wave from another boat, when it was SLOWLY taking a turn.
I don't have a link to the story, because I heard it on the local tv and radio stations. Maybe I can find a link.
I think it will make national news.
"In Wisconsin, by law you have to have as many life jackets in the boat as you do people"
It also is a law on federal waterways (i.e. Intracoastal Waterway) and is enforced by the Coast Guard.
Also, in VA anyone under 14 must wear a life jacket when above decks and the boat is underway.
It's like seat belts in a car. Do it all the time and it becomes a habit. I don't go anywhere in a car without wearing my seat belt, and I don't leave the dock without my life jacket on. Same goes for any passengers, either in car or on boat.