BOATING ACCIDENTS

Each accident resulting either in property damage in excess of $2000 or in the total loss of any vessel shall be reported to the department by the operator of the vessel. This requirement shall include all collision-type accidents involving other vessels, floating objects, and fixed objects, except that an accident report shall not be required when a collision with a floating object or fixed object results in lower unit skeg or propeller damage.

Each required accident report shall be filed with the department by the operator of the vessel within five days after the time of the accident, except that the accident report shall be filed with the department by the operator of the vessel within 48 hours after the time of the accident involving the vessel or its equipment if any of the following occurs:

1. A person dies.
2. A person is injured and requires medical treatment beyond first aid.
3. A person disappears from a vessel under circumstances that indicate death or injury.
4. Each accident report shall be submitted on forms provided by the department.
5. Any individual with knowledge of the accident, including the reporting officer, may file the required accident report if the operator is unable to file the report due to injury or death.