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Boating Accident Reports
Federal law states that if you are involved in a boating accident that includes injury requiring medical treatment, death, disappearance of a person, or property damage of at least $2000, you are required to file an accident report with the responsible local law enforcement agency. Additionally, you are required to file an accident report with the state boating authority.
If you are involved in an accident:
- You are required to stop and give assistance to other persons involved. You must give aid to the extent you can do so without endangering yourself or your passengers.
- You are also required to give your name and address and the number of your vessel (if numbered), in writing, to the owner of any property damaged in the accident.
Many states have different reportable amounts - check your state-specific information. If in doubt, report the accident.
Boating accidents include; capsizing, crew overboard, collisions, fire, sinking & flooding, explosions and disappearance.
Failure to provide assistance or identify yourself when involved in an accident is a serious offense and can carry a severe fine or even imprisonment.
A sample of an accident report can be seen here.
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Boating Basics Glossary