Missouri offers some of the country’s most serene and captivating waterways, and recreational boating is a favorite outdoor activity for many. State lawmakers and authorities aim to keep the waterways safe by enforcing laws that all recreational boat operators and passengers must comply with or face legal problems.
If the carelessness and failure to adhere to the regulations of an operator or passenger causes you harm, you have every right to expect them to cover the damages. Contact a reliable boat crash attorney to learn more about the Rolla boating laws or if you need help with a case.
State boater education cards are a form of recreational boating license, demonstrating that you understand the rules and regulations, and have the skills to navigate the waterways safely. While not a requirement for everyone, state agencies strongly recommend all new operators take a course. Under the Revised Statutes of Missouri § 306.127, every boater born on or after January 1, 1984, must take and pass a safety course and carry a boating safety identification card while boating on any state waterways. The courses cover topics including:
After completing the course, the regulation requires that you take and pass a course to assess your understanding of the material. A $15 fee is also required to obtain your boater education card.
The minimum age to operate a vessel lawfully is 14 for most motorized boats unless someone over 16 is supervising. Further, all passengers age seven and younger must always wear a life jacket. There is an exception for vessels with enclosed cabins. Our attorneys at AW Smith Law Firm have extensive experience with the boating regulations in Rolla, and could help you obtain a fair settlement for damages caused by someone else’s negligence.
Boat operators are responsible for ensuring they understand state recreational boating laws for compliance. That includes following speed limits, avoiding reckless boating actions, such as weaving through traffic or wake jumping, and maintaining a safe distance from other vessels and swimmers.
The rules may vary depending on the waterway location within the state. Anyone involved in boating accidents must stop and assist if necessary, and they must report accidents involving property damage or bodily harm.
Operating any water vessel while under the influence is illegal. As with those driving vehicles, the legal blood alcohol content limit, or BAC, is 0.08 percent for adults and 0.02 percent for operators under 21.
Vessel owners and operators must also ensure they adhere to state equipment requirements, including:
An attorney knowledgeable about the Rolla boating rules and regulations could review the statutes in-depth and answer specific questions during your free consultation.
Millions of state residents have registered recreational boats and personal watercraft in Missouri, and visitors from other states visit many of our waterways yearly. Unfortunately, the high rate of boating enthusiasts also leads to a higher rate of accidents.
You could have grounds for a civil lawsuit to obtain a settlement from the liable party if their actions caused you or someone you love harm. Contact one of our qualified personal injury lawyers at AW Smith Law if you want to learn more about Rolla boating laws.
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