Typically, powerboats such as runabouts, cabin cruisers and jet skis are the most common watercraft to be involved in boating accidents, although sailboats can be involved in accidents as well. The most frequent sources of injuries are caused from propeller accidents and collisions. Because personal watercraft such as jet skis can’t be steered when the throttle is released, inexperienced drivers often have collisions when confronted with an emergency. Serious personal injury and even death can occur due to a boating collision or from a person falling over the side of a watercraft and drowning.

As the operator of a vessel you are required by law to file a formal, written report of an accident. There are four conditions that require you to fill out and send in a boating accident report.

A boating accident report must be filed when:

• A life is lost due to the accident
• Someone is injured and requires medical attention beyond first aid
• There is damage by or to the vessel and other property
• Any person on board a vessel disappears (under circumstances indicating possible death or injury)

Boating Accidents Include:

• Capsizing
• Falls Overboard
• Collisions
• Sinking/Flooding
• Explosions
• Disappearance
• Fire

* Damage is determined by federal regulation to be reportable when it exceeds $500 or there is complete loss of the vessel (Note: many states have set a limit less than $500 - contact the local boating authority to determine the amount)

Reports Must Be Filed:

• 48 hours of the occurrence if a person dies within one day (24 hours of the accident)
• 48 hours if a person is injured and medical treatment beyond first aid is required
• 10 days if there is only damage to the vessel and/or property

Who Must Fill Out The Form?

The form is usually filled out by the operator of the boat unless the operator is physically unable to complete the form. If that is the case, then the owner of the vessel must submit the form.

For more information, contact a qualified Lead Counsel Boat Accident Lawyer today.

Frequently Asked Questions

• I was injured. Can I file a lawsuit for my injuries?
  You can make a claim against another party or parties if they are more at fault for your injuries than you are. In general, when a person is injured as a result of another person's negligence, … more