Malibu Boats Boat User Manual

Contents

Malibu Boats Boat User Manual Manual pdf 40 page image

1-32Basic Rules of the RoadBoating RegulationsThe U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) is the governing authority of the United States waterwaysand serves to help the boating public. State boating regulations are enforced by localauthorities. Owners and users outside of the United States must be cognizant of thatcountry’s laws and regulations. You are subject to marine traffic laws and “Rules of theRoad” for both federal and state waterways; you must stop if signaled to do so byenforcement officers, and permit them to board if asked.Review and understand all local, state, federal, and country boating laws.There are many USCG pamphlets available to you. These pamphlets go beyond thecontents of this manual and explain “Rules of the Road,” signal lights, buoys, safety,international and inland regulations. An example is the Ultimate Watersports Handbookyou should have received with your new boat, or which can be ordered by contactingWSIA; go to: www.WSIA.net. For more information, contact your local USCG unit orvisit http://www.uscgboating.org.You should be aware of these rules and follow them whenever you encounter anothervessel on the water. The rules presented in this manual outline only the most basic of thenautical “Rules of the Road” and have been provided as a convenience only. Consult yourlocal U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary (USCGA), Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) orlocal maritime authority for a complete set of rules governing the waters in which youwill be using your boat. If you plan to travel—even for a short trip—you would be wellserved to contact the regional USCGA or DMV in the area where you will be boating.The nautical Rules of the Road must be followed to prevent collisions between vessels.Like traffic laws for automobiles, the operator is legally required to follow the rules.Collisions between boats can cause death or serious injury.Keep a proper lookout, safe speed, and follow the nautical“Rules of the Road.”Encountering Another VesselAny time two vessels on the water meet one another, one vessel has the right-of-way. It iscalled the “stand-on” or “privileged vessel”. The vessel which does NOT have the right-of-way is called the “give-way” or “burdened vessel”. These rules determine which vesselhas the right-of-way, and accordingly, what each vessel should do.Privileged VesselThe privileged vessel has the right-of-way and has the duty to continue its course andspeed, except to avoid an immediate collision. When you maintain your direction andspeed, the other vessel will be able to determine how best to avoid you.!WARNING