It's The Law: On The Water with Your Vessel

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 vessel or passengers.
• Vessel operators involved in an accident must report the accident by the quickest means possible if it has resulted in:
  • Death or ...
  • The disappearance of a person from a vessel under circumstances that indicate death or injury or ...
  • Injury requiring medical treatment beyond first aid or ...
  • Property damage exceeding $500 to all vessels, docks, etc. involved in the accident.
• Accident reports submitted by operators are confidential and are not admissible in court as evidence.
• Report forms are available from Texas Parks & Wildlife offices, game wardens, and the TPWD website at: www.tpwd.state.tx.us/fishboat/boat/responsible/accident_reports/
• As the operator of a vessel involved in a boating accident, you must give your name, address, and Certificate of Number in writing to any injured person and to the owner of any damaged property.