When You Must Report a Boating Accident
While you are likely familiar with South Carolina’s motor vehicle laws, you may be less acquainted with the state’s boating laws and regulations. South Carolina stipulates that you must report a boating accident if there are any deaths, significant injuries, or disappearances, or if property damage exceeds $2,000. If you plan to operate a boat or other vessel, you must understand the state laws regarding what you need to do in the event of a boating accident. Our personal injury attorneys in Charleston, SC, are interested in protecting the rights of all watercraft users and operators.
South Carolina’s Boating Safety Tips
If you are operating a boat or other type of water vessel in South Carolina, it is highly recommended that you:
- Always let someone know where you are going before heading out
- Know the navigational aids and buoy system in your area
- If someone falls overboard, do not jump in after them, but instead throw something into the water that floats
- Watch for overhead power lines and wires when operating a sailboat
- Boats approaching from the right have right-of-way
- Remain with your boat if the vessel capsizes
- Only operate the boat while sober
What to Do Following a Boating Accident
After a boating accident, taking the proper steps is critical for your safety, compliance with South Carolina law, and protecting your legal rights. Below are key actions to follow.
Exchange Information
Although South Carolina does not require boating insurance, it is still advisable to obtain coverage to protect yourself in the event of an accident with an uninsured boater. Following a boating accident, exchange information with the other boater involved. It includes your contact information, the name of your insurance provider, and your vessel identification number. Never admit fault, even if you believe the collision is entirely your fault.
Seek Medical Attention
If you are injured, seek medical attention immediately. Injuries in the open water can quickly escalate, meaning that you should seek treatment even if your injuries seem minor. Seeking medical attention promptly may be crucial to saving your life. If any of your passengers are injured, be sure to seek medical intervention on their behalf.
Report the Accident
The U.S. Coast Guard specifies that you must report a boating accident if anyone dies, if anyone is injured and requires medical help beyond first aid, if anyone disappears from the vessel, if the boat is destroyed, or if there is more than $2,000 of damage to the vessel. Be sure to report the accident to the state reporting authority. If anyone dies within 24 hours, suffers significant injuries, or disappears, you must report the accident within 48 hours to law enforcement. If there is only damage to the vessel or other property, you have 10 days to report the incident.
Collect Evidence
If possible, take pictures of the damage to the vessel, any injuries you or other boat passengers sustained, and the scene of the accident. This evidence may be needed later to prove liability.
Seek Legal Counsel
In the aftermath of a boating accident, it is essential to understand your rights and legal options. An attorney will explain what boating laws apply in your case and if you did anything in violation of them. A Charleston, SC, personal injury lawyer who specializes in boating accidents will also have access to resources and expert witnesses, which can help develop a winning strategy.
Injured at Sea? Speak with Our Personal Injury Attorneys Today
Boating accidents can result in substantial property damage and serious injuries to vessel operators and passengers alike. Establishing another boater’s negligence can be difficult, but not impossible, with the proper counsel by your side. If you or a passenger has been injured while at sea, our Charleston, SC, personal injury lawyers are here to advocate for the compensation you deserve. To arrange your free consultation, contact us online or call (843) 552-6011.