If you’re going to operate a boat at all this summer, it’s crucial to recognize rules regarding safety, navigation, speed, and more. The more you understand about boating, the more you can keep yourself, your passengers, and others safe.
While there are many laws regarding boating while under the influence and speed in no-wake zones, there are also navigation rules to follow. All boat operators should know these rules, but boats over 39.4 feet in length should have a copy onboard. Here’s what you should know:
Rules for Crossing Boats
In a crossing situation where your boat and another boat are perpendicular to one another, the ship to the right is considered the stand-on vessel. For instance, if you’re operating your boat in a straight line and another boat is approaching from your left, you have the right of way to continue moving straight. The boat to the left has to give way.
Rules for Head-On Situations
When you and another boat are approaching each other in a head-on direction. Whenever this happens, both operators should go to the right and pass so the other boat is on their port side (or their left). It helps to create some distance and avoid creating waves for the other boat that can be dangerous.
Rules for Overtaking
If one boat is behind another and traveling faster, it’s their responsibility to go around the boat in front of them. The boat in the front is not responsible for moving out of the way. The boat in the back is responsible for safely going around the other watercraft.
If you are in a boating accident, you deserve to safeguard your rights to pursue compensation. You can trust that we will stand by your side every step of the way and guide you through the process. When you need help, rely on our boating accident attorneys at Lowe Law Group to stand in your corner.
