California Boating Accident Report Laws
The California State Parks Division of Boating and Waterways collects boating accident reports and analyzes them for the purpose of developing new strategies and making recommendations to improve boating safety and reduce accidents, injuries and deaths on the water.
In the event of a boating accident, it’s important to file a report so that the incident becomes a matter of public record. It’s also a legal obligation. Find out which circumstances require a boating accident report in California!
When to file a boating accident report in California
Boat operators are required to report a boating accident to California State Parks Division of Boating and Waterways (DBW) in the following cases:
- If the accident results in death, disappearance or injury that requires medical attention beyond first aid
- If a boat or other property incurs damage that exceeds $500
- If a vessel of any value is lost entirely
Failure to report a boating accident in the circumstances listed above is a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of up to $1,000, a term of imprisonment lasting up to six months, or both.
Deadlines for filing a boating accident report
A boating accident report must be submitted to the Division of Boating and Waterways within 48 hours in the following cases:
- If death occurs within 24 hours of the accident
- If someone disappears
- In the event of an injury that requires medical attention beyond first aid
A boating accident report must be submitted to the Division of Boating and Waterways within 10 days in the following cases:
- If death occurs more than 24 hours after the accident
- If there is property damage that exceeds $500 or the vessel is lost entirely
How to file a boating accident report in California
Fill out the official boating accident report form, sign it and mail it to:
California Division of Boating and Waterways
Attn: Boating Accident Unit
PO Box 942896
Sacramento, CA 94296-0001
The information in the report will be considered confidential and cannot be used when taking legal action.
Boat in compliance with state law
California has many laws in place to ensure that boaters stay safe on the water. These include everything from life jacket laws and carbon monoxide regulations to the requirement for everyone under a certain age to take a California boating safety course.
Drive a Boat USA offers a comprehensive online boating safety course that is approved by NASBLA and the state of California. By taking the course, you’ll learn everything you need to know to comply with state regulations while boating and stay safe on the water. Register today!