In Florida, boating is a popular pastime for many. With the abundance of bodies of water and sunny weather, it’s no wonder that so many people enjoy getting out on the water. But with boating also comes the potential for accidents. In Florida, it is important to know what situations require a boating accident report to be filed.
Boat Accident Requirements in Florida
In Florida, if a boating accident results in death, disappearance, or injury, it is required that a boating accident report be filed with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. Additionally, if the accident results in more than $2,000 worth of property damage, a report must be filed.
In the event of an accident, it is important to remain at the scene and take all necessary steps to ensure the safety of those involved. The boater should also take pictures of the scene, if possible, and exchange contact and insurance information with the other parties involved.
Filing a Boating Accident Report in Florida
If a boating accident report is required, the report must be filed within 48 hours of the accident. The report must include the names, addresses, and contact information of all parties involved, as well as the vessel registration numbers and insurance information of all vessels involved.
The report must also include the date, time, and location of the accident, as well as a description of what happened. If possible, photographs of the scene should be included. In addition, the report should also include the names and contact information of any witnesses to the accident.
The report must be signed by the operator of the vessel and can be submitted online or mailed to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
Boating accidents can be dangerous and should be taken seriously. It is important to know the requirements for filing a boating accident report in Florida so that you can be prepared if an accident occurs. By understanding the requirements and taking the necessary steps to ensure safety, you can help to prevent accidents and ensure that the responsible parties are held accountable.
In the US state of Florida, if an individual is involved in a boating accident they must file an accident report, as required by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FFWCC). This includes any marine accident where vessels are damaged or injuries or fatalities occur, even if the vessels do not actually collide with each other, and regardless of the extent of damage or injury.
Examples of maritime accidents that would require an accident report to be filed in Florida include, but are not limited to, the following situations:
• Collision between two or more vessels, including direct or indirect contact
• Grounding of a vessel
• Explosion or fire on board any vessel
• Any other type of accident that causes injury, death or damage to property
• Capsizing or sinking of a vessel
• Injury to a person by a vessel or water craft involved in the accident
• Loss of propulsion causing damage or injury
• Use of alcohol or drug use that results in damages or injuries
• Damage or destruction of fisheries or wildlife resources
It is important to note that in some cases, the FFWCC may release individual vessels after an accident, provided there is no significant risk of additional injury, death or damage to the environment. Additionally, the FFWCC may decide to take no further action to investigate the accident in the event of minor damages or injuries.
The FFWCC coordinates accident investigations in partnership with the United States Coast Guard (USCG), local law enforcement, and other agencies. Each incident must be reported in accordance with FFWCC regulations and should include an accurate description of the incident, complete with time, place, and a graphic or description of the event, as well as any injuries, damage, and information about the witnesses.
Accident reports can be filed via the FFWCC’s online form, as well as through their telephone and mail systems. It is essential that all information is reported as accurately and truthfully as possible, as it is against the law to knowingly give false information to a state or federal agency.
In Florida, it is the responsibility of those involved in any maritime accident to ensure that an accident report is filed with the FFWCC. By doing so, they can help keep the waterways safe and will be doing their part to contribute to the safety of all mariners.
