The Rules of Navigation in Boating - For Safe Boating
The Rules of Navigation in Boating - For Safe Boating
Every boater needs to know the Navigation Rules as laid down by the US Coast Guard and follow them to keep the waterways safe. In Florida, boaters have to be extra careful to follow these rules because it is illegal for boaters not to follow the Navigation Rules in Florida.
The most basic Navigation Rule is the first, to practice good seamanship whenever you are operating a boat. The Coast Guard defines good seamanship as taking whatever action is necessary to avoid collisions with other boats. This means that a boater needs to take conditions into account and maintain a safe distance from other boats and ships.
The second Navigation Rule is to maintain a good lookout. This means that a boater has to always be on the lookout for any potential hazard in the water. In particular a boater has to watch for swimmers, other boats, ships and personal watercraft.
The third rule is to maintain a safe speed. That means boaters shouldn't be moving too fast especially in canals or at night or when visibility is reduced.
Under these rules every boater is responsible for avoiding a collision. A boater who doesn't take reasonable action to avoid a collision can be charged with reckless or careless operation of a boat under Florida law. A boater who causes a collision could also be liable for a lawsuit over damage caused.
These rules can be legally ignored if the situation their boat would be in danger if they follow the rules. The navigation rules set down what boats have to do when they encounter another vessel on the water.
One aspect of the navigation rules that every boater should be aware of is of is the give-way and stand-on vessels. The give way vessel is the boat that is required to give way for another boat. It has to do this by stopping, standing down or changing course. The stand-on vessel is the vessel that must maintain its course when it encounters another boat.
Generally the smaller of two vessels that encounter each other has to give way. The larger vessel is usually the stand on vessel which means it has the right of way. A boat following another boat is also usually considered the give-way boat.
Florida Boat owners must follow the rules above to keep themselves and their boats safe. These are some of the most important rules of boating. Have Fun on a Party Boat Hire Zhuhai East Golden Boat: Energy Star A "boat" Single Show - Energy Saving, Energy Saving, How To Build A Homemade Boat - Latest Updates! Boat Rentals Newport Beach: enjoy your trip with this great opportunity Why Choose A Professional For Boat Lift Repair Dory Boat Designs - Yes You Can! Build Simple Model Boat - Look What I Found… Free Scale Model Boat Plans? - Read Now! Customers Using Wegolook For Onsite Boat Inspection Services Small Plywood Boat Plans - Latest Updates! Wooden Row Boat Kits? - Do it Now! Marine Pumps are Ideal for More than Boats How To Build A Dory Boat - This is Your Chance!