It's the Law: On the Water

Vessel Accidents and Casualties

An operator involved in a boating accident must:

• Stop his or her vessel immediately at the scene of the accident and …
• Assist anyone injured or in danger from the accident, unless doing so would seriously endanger his or her own vessel or passengers and …
• Give, in writing, his or her name, address, and vessel identification to anyone injured and to the owner of any property damaged by the accident.
• Vessel operators involved in an accident must report the accident to the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (IDNR).
  • The operator must report the accident in writing to IDNR within 48 hours of the occurrence in cases that result in death, disappearance, or personal injuries requiring medical treatment.
  • The operator must report the accident in writing to IDNR within five days if damage to the vessel and/or other property exceeds $2000.
• Accidents should be reported on accident report forms available from the Iowa Department of Natural Resources. Report forms are available online on IDNR’s website.