atingSafety
Boating Safety
Types of Boating Accidents
- Collision involving two or more vessels
- Collision with a submerged object
- Collision with dock
- Capsizing
- Running aground
- Fall overboard
- Fire
- Fall on the vessel
- Electrocution
- Thrown from the vessel
- Sinking
South Carolina Boating Laws
- South Carolina has many common sense precautions, such as not obstructing narrow waterways, adhering to no-wake zones, and more, codified as law.
- Boat insurance is not required in South Carolina but is highly recommended by experts.
- Operating a boat while under the influence of mind-altering substances (alcohol or drugs, for example), or operating a boat recklessly, are prohibited.
- Specific requirements exist for boat operators under the age of 18. Verify compliance before letting minors operate boat.
Boating Safety Tips
Always check the weather conditions and forecast before departure.
Follow rules of the “road” for boating. Stick to navigational buoys and don’t speed past other boats.
Keep an appropriate amount of life jackets on hand.
Disclose details of your trip before your departure to a person not travelling with you in case of an accident.
What to Do After a Boating Accident
Contact the Coast Guard as soon as possible.
Keep the boat out of harm’s way, including out of the path of other marine vessels.
If a passenger has fallen overboard, assist them back onboard. If that’s not possible, then ensure they have a life jacket and are safe as possible in the water.
After your return to land, see medical professionals if you experience pain or other symptoms of an injury. A thorough medical exam is a good idea even if you don’t experience immediate symptoms.
If the boat has not capsized, is not sinking, and not on fire or otherwise in a dangerous state, then remain aboard the boat and determine if emergency assistance is necessary.
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