South Carolina Boating Laws That Apply After an Accident

A family heads out to Lake Wylie for a summer afternoon. They launch their boat and hope to relax. They do not think about a reckless driver speeding around a bend. They do not think about the sun blinding another captain. But accidents happen on the water just like they do on the road. A fun day can turn into a nightmare in a split second. A passenger might be thrown overboard. A collision might damage the hull.

It is terrifying to be involved in a crash when you are far from the shore. The Law Offices of Wilkerson Jones and Wilkerson see the aftermath when the waves settle. We know that a boating accident is not just about a damaged vessel. It is about medical bills, fear of the water, and confusing regulations. This guide tells a person what South Carolina boating laws say about responsibility and safety on the Catawba River and beyond.

What Are the Immediate Duties Under SC Boating Laws?

“Under South Carolina boating laws, the operator of any vessel involved in an accident must immediately stop, render assistance to injured persons (as long as it can be done safely), and exchange name, address, and boat registration information with the other party.”

If a person gets hit by another boat near Tega Cay, they might be in shock. But fleeing the scene is a crime. Just like a car crash in Rock Hill, staying at the scene is mandatory. The Law Offices of Wilkerson Jones and Wilkerson helps victims ensure that the negligent party is held accountable for failing these basic duties.

Who Is Allowed to Operate a Boat in Rock Hill?

South Carolina boating laws have strict rules about who can be behind the wheel. These rules help keep everyone safe. If an unqualified driver causes a crash, they are often liable for the damages.

1. Age Restrictions

In South Carolina, children under the age of 16 cannot operate a boat or personal watercraft (PWC) with a motor of 15 horsepower or greater unless they are accompanied by an adult. This prevents inexperienced children from endangering themselves and others on busy weekends.

2. Boater Education

Boaters under the age of 16 must complete a boating safety course approved by the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) to operate a boat alone. If a parent lets an uncertified child drive a jet ski and they hit a swimmer, the parent could be found negligent.

What Safety Equipment Is Required by Boating Laws?

A boat must have the right gear before it leaves the dock. If a boat lacks this gear and an accident happens, the owner may be at fault for the severity of the injuries.

• Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs): There must be a wearable life jacket for every person on board. Children under 12 must wear their life jacket whenever the boat is moving.
• Fire Extinguishers: Most boats with engines must carry a working fire extinguisher to stop fuel fires quickly.
• Sound-Producing Devices: A whistle or horn is required to signal other boats in tight channels or fog.
• Navigation Lighting: Proper navigation lights are mandatory between sunset and sunrise. Compliance with these boating laws ensures that other vessels can see you in the dark, preventing collisions on the open water.

When Must a Boating Accident Be Reported?

Not every bump needs a police report, but serious ones do. The SCDNR requires a formal report if the accident results in certain outcomes.

• Loss of life: If someone dies, it must be reported immediately.

• Medical treatment: If an injury requires more than simple first aid, a report is needed.

• Significant damage: If the damage to the vessel or property exceeds a specific value set by the state, a report must be filed.

The Law Offices of Wilkerson Jones and Wilkerson advises clients to always file a report if they are unsure. Having an official record from the SCDNR is a powerful piece of evidence.

How Do You Prove Negligence on the Water?

Winning a case requires proving the other boater was careless. The water is not a lawless place. Several actions are clear signs of negligence under South Carolina boating laws.

• Boating Under the Influence (BUI): It is illegal to operate a boat while drunk or on drugs. Alcohol is a leading cause of fatal boating accidents in South Carolina.

• Excessive Speed: Speeding in “No Wake” zones or near bridges is reckless. A boat cannot stop as fast as a car.

• Overloading: Putting too many people on a small boat makes it unstable. If it capsizes, the operator is responsible.

• Improper Lookout: A captain must always watch for swimmers, debris, and other boats. Distracted boating is just as dangerous as distracted driving.

A Human Perspective on Water Safety

Water accidents are unique. There is no ambulance that can pull up right next to you. The panic of being in deep water adds to the trauma. When a person is hurt, they worry about long-term recovery. They worry if they can ever enjoy the lake again. Advice for anyone in this spot is to prioritize medical care immediately.

Experts say that gathering evidence on the water is hard. Waves wash away debris. Witnesses drift away. This is why calling a professional immediately is vital. Every person deserves to feel safe when they launch their boat at Ebenezer Park. When that safety is violated by a drunk or reckless boater, the law is there to help.

Why Experience Matters in Rock Hill

The Law Offices of Wilkerson Jones and Wilkerson understands the local waterways. They know the difference between a simple accident and gross negligence. They help families navigate the complex insurance policies that cover boats. When a person is fighting a marine insurance company, they need a partner who knows the rules of the river.

A person should not have to pay for a mistake that a reckless captain made. If an operator was lazy about safety or drunk at the helm, they should be the one to pay the bills. Rock Hill offers beautiful waters, but safety must come first.

Injured in a Boating Accident? Get a Professional Case Review in Rock Hill.

FAQs

Do I need a license to drive a boat in SC?

South Carolina does not require a general “license” for adults, but boaters under 16 need a safety certificate. However, all operators must follow navigation rules.

Is drinking alcohol on a boat illegal?

Passengers can drink, but the operator cannot be impaired. If the operator’s blood alcohol content is too high, they can be arrested for BUI.

What if the other boater does not have insurance?

Boat insurance is not mandatory in SC, which is a big problem. You may be able to use your own uninsured boater coverage or sue the operator personally for assets.

Can I sue for a jet ski accident?

Yes. Personal watercraft (PWC) are treated as vessels. Operators must follow the same laws regarding speed, distance, and reckless operation.

How long do I have to file a boating injury claim?

Generally, the statute of limitations is three years in South Carolina. However, evidence disappears quickly on the water, so acting fast is crucial.

Free case review: Call us or send a message to start a confidential consultation today.