It's the Law: On the Water

Accidents and Casualties

• You must stop and render whatever assistance is necessary to any person involved in a boating accident unless it would endanger your own boat or passengers.
• The following types of boating accidents must be reported to the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR).
  • Death or disappearance of a person. The boat operator must make:
    • Immediate verbal notification to the SCDNR (1-800-922-5431) and ...
    • A written report to the SCDNR within 48 hours.
  • Loss of consciousness of a person. The boat operator must make a written report to the SCDNR within 48 hours.
  • Medical treatment that extends beyond 24 hours of a person injured in the accident. The operator must make a written report to the SCDNR within 48 hours.
  • Property damage to all involved boats, docks, etc. in excess of $500. The boat operator must make a written report to the SCDNR within 10 days.
• Mail the written Boating Accident Report form to the SCDNR Division of Law Enforcement, Investigation and Education, P. O. Box 12559, Charleston, SC 29422-2559.
• You must give your name, address, and Certificate of Number in writing to any injured person and to the owner of any damaged property if you are involved in a boating accident.
• Accident reports are not admissible as evidence in criminal court.