Chapter 4: The Legal Requirements of Boating
Vessel Accidents & Casualties—What the Law Requires You to Do

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 others or put the operator at risk.
• 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.

An accident must be reported to the local sheriff’s office or a Fish, Wildlife & Parks law enforcement officer if it caused:

• The death or disappearance of any person
• An injury requiring medical treatment beyond first aid
• Property damage in excess of $100

Accidents should be reported on accident report forms available from the county sheriff’s office, Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks offices, and Fish, Wildlife & Parks law enforcement officers.

Accident or boating emergency?

In the event of an accident or other boating emergency, call the local sheriff’s office or Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks at 406-444-2535.