Vessel Accidents

Vessel Accidents
(ORC 1547.10 & ORC 1547.59)
The operator of a vessel involved in a collision or accident, to the extent possible without risking serious danger to their own vessel, crew, and passengers, shall render assistance as may be practicable and necessary. Any person who renders assistance at the scene of an accident involving a vessel is not liable in a civil action for damages or injury from any act or omission in rendering assistance, except for willful or wanton misconduct.

The operator having knowledge of the accident or collision shall immediately stop and remain at the scene, to the extent that it is safe and practical, and give the operator's name and address and the boat owner's name and address and registration number to any person injured or to the operator, owner, or attendant of any vessel damaged or to a law enforcement officer.

If the accident results in loss of life, injury requiring medical treatment beyond first aid, or damage to property in excess of $500, the operator shall file a full report on a prescribed form. If the operator is incapacitated, an officer shall file the form.

Violation Resulting in Injury or Damage is Evidence of Negligence
(ORC 1547.34)
Violations of watercraft law which result in injury to persons or damage to property shall constitute prima facie evidence of negligence in a civil action.

SPLASH FACT

To obtain a copy of the Boating Accident Report Form contact a Watercraft Field Office or download it [PDF; 64K].