Emergency: Collisions

Collision Regulations state that every vessel shall take all measures necessary to determine if risk of collision exists, and shall take all measures necessary to avoid a collision.

When there is a risk of collision, operators of both vessels are required to take whatever action is required to avoid contact, however if a collision is unavoidable you should reduce damage to ‘sensitive’ areas of both vessels.

Note: Every vessel should navigate at a speed that allows proper and effective action to avoid a collision.

If you are involved in a boating accident you need to know what actions are required by law:

• Stop your vessel;
• Immediately ensure that everyone is accounted for and check for injuries.
• Ensure that everyone is wearing a PFD or a lifejacket;
• Identify yourself and your boat, exchange ID/contact details if required;
• Provide assistance, if possible and warranted;
• Keep a record of pertinent information with dates, time, and conditions;
• Transmit distress call (i.e. VHF radio call or cellular phone) and/or visual signal if necessary; and
• File an accident report with the local law enforcement authority.