BOATING SAFETY
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Visibility
WARNING
Obstructed visibility can cause death or serious injury. Maintain clear visibility
at all times. Arrange passengers and equipment for maximum visibility or
designate a passenger to assist when visibility is limited.
The operator of the boat is responsible by law to “maintain a proper lookout
by sight and hearing.” The operator must ensure that he/she has appropri-
ate visibility for safe operation. No passengers or equipment should block the
operator’s view outward or of other boats, skier, rider, swimmer, or anyone in
the water. Even momentary interference can result in the driver’s inability to
respond to a situation that requires avoidance of another vessel or submerged
or partially-submerged objects. Look carefully before turning, especially when
you are turning around to pick up a fallen skier/rider. Someone else may not
be following the “Rules of the Road.” Keep a visual check for boats behind your
boat. This is an area where accidents can happen very quickly. The boat should
not be driven at a rate of speed faster than will allow it to be brought to a full
stop within the operator’s field of view.
Boating Under the Influence
DANGER
Operating a boat under the influence of alcohol can cause serious
injury or death.
Boating, alcohol, and the use of other drugs just do not mix. Boating under the
influence of alcohol or drugs can be deadly. Boating, coupled with alcohol and
other drugs results in many marine accidents and deaths accounting for approxi-
mately one third of all recreational boating fatalities. These substances decrease
your reaction time and impair your judgment. Combined with the sun, wind,
waves, and noise of other watercraft, the effects of drugs are increased and
will significantly increase your reaction time. As the owner/operator, you are
responsible for the alcohol/drug use and onboard behavior of your passengers.
WARNING
Federal and state laws prohibit operating a boat under the influence of
alcohol and other drugs. These regulations are actively enforced. Impaired
operation may result in severe personal injury or death.
WARNING
If the operator’s blood alcohol content is above the legal limit, violators are sub-
ject to fines and you can go to jail. You may also lose your automobile driving
privileges.
Additionally, civil lawsuits in cases of property damage or injury/death to others can
result in significantly higher verdicts when alcohol or drugs are allowed.
Reporting Accidents
Boat operators may be required by law to file a Boating Accident report with
their state boating law enforcement agency or local authority, the USCG, or
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