Boaters are reminded of their responsibilities after an incident | MyCentralOregon.com

The Oregon State Marine Board would like to remind boaters that it is a legal requirement to assist and render aid if another boat is flooded, capsized, or involved in any other incident involving property damage or personal injury. It is also about being a “good neighbor” on the water.

Failure to perform the duties of the boat operator (ORS 830.475) can result in a conviction for a Class A misdemeanor. In cases where the boat operator leaves the scene of a boating accident that results in personal injury or death, the boat operator can be charged with a Class C felony.

“Boaters need to be aware of other people enjoying themselves on the water around them. In many cases, ordinary boaters become heroes when others fall overboard, helping to prevent further tragedies,” said Brian Paulsen, Boating Safety Program Manager at the Marine Board.

Oregon’s waterways are becoming increasingly congested, but everyone has an equal right to recreation. Please be considerate and remember to share the waterways during responsible recreation.

Learn more about the Marine Board, the agency’s programs and maritime law enforcement partners.