I would bet my paycheck that most casualties on the water are by boaters with little to no experience, in a situation anyone with common sense would not be in.
Im guilty of not wearing a lifejacket, and i've never needed it....because I dont put myself in situations where I would be at risk of needing it.
And, yeah, there is always the risk of something happening, but I could also be killed walking down the sidewalk, so i'll take my chances.
S.