Boating Safety
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.
Rendering Assistance
If you see a distress signal or suspect a boat is in trouble, you must assume it is a real emergency and render assistance immediately. By law, the operator in charge of the craft is obligated to provide assistance to any individual in danger if such assistance can be provided safely. Failure to render assistance can result in a fine and/or imprisonment.
The 1971 Boating Safety Act grants protection to a "Good Samaritan" boater providing good faith assistance, and absolves a boater from any civil liability arising from such assistance.
Required Safety Equipment
The Federal Boat Safety Act of 1971 (FBSA/71) established minimum safety standards for boats and associated equipment, specified by the USCG. In addition, the ABYC and the NMMA work with boat builders to develop voluntary standards that exceed base requirements.
The included safety equipment on your Correct Craft boat meets or exceeds the standards of the USCG, ABYC and the NMMA. Some required safety equipment such as PFDs are not included with your Correct Craft boat. Your Correct Craft Dealer can help you choose the appropriate equipment.
NOTICE
Many states’ equipment requirements go beyond USCG requirements. Contact your state boating office for further information.