You hear a lot of talk about The Rules of the Road, but, to many boaters, these rules are Greek. The following may help to make some sense. A good rule of thumb is watch out for the other guy!
RULES OF THE ROAD
• Red lights are always on left (port) side of boat and green lights are on right (starboard) side.
• When two boaters meet head on, both should steer to the right (starboard).
• When vessels are crossing, the boat on the right (starboard) has the right-of-way.
• When passing another vessel, the vessel being passed has the right-of-way.
• When boating in a narrow channel, keep to the right (starboard).
• Sailing vessels under sail have the right-of-way all the time.
• If you find yourself in danger, five short blasts of the horn will signal nearby boaters.
• Any action to avoid collision must be made early and be readily apparent to the other vessel.
UNDER THE INFLUENCE
Florida has a very strict law on operating a vessel while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The law makes it crystal clear that drunken boating is a crime, and the drunken boat operator is a dangerous criminal.
The penalties include fines of up to $2,500, imprisonment of up to one year, non-paid public service work, and mandatory substance abuse counseling. The law provides for mandatory sentencing – the “suspended sentence” is a thing of the past for drunken boat operators. If a drunken operator kills another person, the penalty jumps to five years in a State Prison and a fine of up to $5,000.
Florida also has an “implied consent” law for boat operators. The law says that by operating a vessel, it is implied that you consent to chemical testing of your breath, blood or urine. If you cause death or serious injury, the police may use reasonable force to require you to submit to a blood test.
IN ADDITION…
Backing a trailer, launching a boat and trailering it are perhaps the most intimidating aspects of boating to many newcomers. Done properly, it can become quite easy. New boat owners often need instruction in proper launching and loading methods.
All boaters need to practice common courtesy at the ramp! Poor ramp etiquette is a common problem in some parks. Park officers sp end much time at the ramp directing traffic and cooling tempers. Proper ramp etiquette can be the start or finish of a pleasant boat outing.
To view official fishing & boating regulations for the State of Florida,
visit the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission
CLICK HERE TO VISIT THE FWC WEBSITE
