SECTION : INTRODUCTION
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8
Registration/Documentation
The USCG requires that all power boats operated on the navigable waters
of the U.S. be registered in the state of main use; also, many states require
registration in that state whenever boating on waters within their state
boundary. Contact your state boating authorities (and neighboring states) for
registration information on boats and trailers.
Your dealer can supply you with the appropriate forms.
QUALIFIED BOAT OPERATORS
This manual is not intended to provide complete training on all aspects of
boat operation. We strongly recommend that all operators of this boat seek
additional training on boat handling and safety. Have all operators become
familiar with the handling characteristics and proper steering and control
system usage before attempting high-speed operation.
Some states require youths 16 years of age and younger to complete a
boating safety course before operating any watercraft. Many others require
operators under the age of 18 to be licensed in small boat operation.
EDUCATION OPPORTUNITIES
Be boat smart from the start, take a boating safety course and get a free
vessel safety check annually for your boat. For more information, contact:
• United States Coast Guard Auxiliary, www.cgaux.org;
• United States Power Squadrons, 888-FOR-USPS, www.usps.org.
Most boaters can enhance their enjoyment of boating experiences
through increased knowledge of safe operation, navigation and regulation
of pleasure boats. The following is a list of some other agencies and
organizations that offer Water Safety, First Aid and CPR courses or
information. To find boating safety courses in your area, call your state’s
local boating agency or the USCG boating safety course line at 800-336-
2628 (800-245-2628 in Virginia).
• American Red Cross
• State Boating Offices
• Canadian Power and Sail Squadrons
• Boat Owners Association of the United States
• National Safe Boating Council
• American Water Ski Association (AWSA)
FEDERAL, STATE AND LOCAL REGULATIONS
The U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) is the authority of the waterways; they are
there to help the boating public. State local authorities enforce boating
regulations. You are subject to marine traffic laws and “Rules of the Road”
for both federal and state waterways. You must stop if signaled to do so by
enforcement officers, and permit to be boarded as asked.
REPORTING ACCIDENTS
The USCG requires the owner or operator of a boat involved in an accident
to report the incident to the proper marine law enforcement agency for the
state in which the accident occurred.
Immediate notification to the nearest State boating authority is required if
a person dies or disappears as a result of a recreational boating accident.
If a person dies or sustains injuries requiring more than first aid, a formal
report must be filed within 48 hours of the accident. A formal report must
be filed within 10 days for accidents exceeding $500 in property damage or
complete loss of boat.
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