Oregon Boaters Reminded of State Laws Defining Duties after Water Incidents
The Oregon State Marine Board wanted to remind boaters that it's state law to help and render aid in cases where another boat is swamped, capsizes or is involved in another incident with property damage or personal injury.
Marine Board officials say it's also about being a "good neighbor" on the water.
By Oregon statute, failure to fulfill the duties of the boat operator could result in a Class A misdemeanor citation. In cases where the boat operator leaves the scene of a boat accident where there is personal injury or death, the boater may be charged with a Class C felony.
Brian Paulsen, Boating Safety Program Coordinator for the Marine Board, said boaters need to pay close attention to other people recreating on the water around them. In many cases, he said everyday boaters become heroes when others go overboard, helping avert further tragedy.
Oregon's waterways are increasingly congested, but everyone has the same right to recreate. Please be mindful and remember to share the waterway while recreating responsibly.
Posted on 7/1/24 6:21AM by Sam Marsh
