SECTION : 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
appropriate 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 approximately 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 subject 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 their countries’ agency when their boat is involved in certain boating
accidents. A boating accident must be reported if there is a loss or probable
loss of life or personal injury requiring medical attention. In these situations
a formal report must generally be filed within 48 hours of the accident,
and for accidents when damage exceeding $500 is incurred, or there is a
complete loss of the boat as well. A formal report must generally be filed
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