Boating Basics

Louisiana, with its picturesque bayous, expansive lakes, and winding rivers, offers residents and tourists a paradise to explore. However, before you set sail on Louisiana’s waters, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the specific regulations and guidelines that govern boating activities in the state.

If you are involved in an accident that injures you or someone you love, you may need a Louisiana boating accident lawyer to get compensation. Dudley DeBoiser Injury Lawyers can help you navigate maritime law and protect your rights.

Basic Boating Tips for Beginners

If you’ve never driven a boat before but are renting one for the day, our checklist provides some basic tips for novice sailors. If you have specific questions or concerns, seek additional boating education or guidance from the rental company.

1. Know Louisiana Boating Rules and Regulations

To operate a boat legally in Louisiana, it’s important to understand and abide by the state’s boating regulations.

In Louisiana, anyone born after January 1, 1984, must complete a boating education course and carry proof of completion to operate a motorboat in excess of 10 horsepower, unless accompanied by someone over the age of 18 who has completed a boating course. The course can be completed online, and the certificate does not need to be renewed.

2. Check Safety Equipment

Ensure the boat is equipped with all the necessary safety equipment. Check for an adequate number of life jackets, a throwable flotation device, a fire extinguisher, distress signals, and a sound-producing device such as a horn, whistle, or bell. Make sure you know where these items are located on the boat and how to use them.

Louisiana law requires that all children 16 years of age or younger wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved Type I, II, III, or V PFD (Personal Flotation Device) while onboard any vessel under 26 feet long. The PFD must be fastened and of the proper size for the child.

Anyone on motorboats under 16 feet that are propelled by hand tillers must wear a personal flotation device regardless of age.

3. Conduct a Pre-Departure Check

Perform a thorough pre-departure check to ensure your boat is in excellent working condition. Inspect the fuel levels, PFDs, navigation lights, communication devices, and safety equipment. Confirm that life jackets are readily accessible and in good condition. This minimizes the risk of breakdowns or emergencies while out on the water.

4. Plan Your Trip in Advance

Plan your boating excursion in advance, considering the weather, tides, and destination. Check for any navigational hazards, shallow areas, restricted zones, or closures in the area you intend to explore. Familiarize yourself with basic navigation markers such as buoys, beacons, and dayboards and understand their meaning so you can navigate safely on the water.

5. Know Your Boat’s Features

Take the time to familiarize yourself with the features and controls of your boat. Understand how to start the engine, operate the navigation equipment, adjust trim settings, and use safety mechanisms. Knowing your boat enables you to handle it confidently and respond effectively in different situations.

6. Learn How to Dock and Moor

Learn how to properly dock and moor the boat. Practice maneuvering the boat at slow speeds and understand how to approach a dock or mooring buoy. Be aware of wind and current conditions that can affect your docking procedure.

7. Maintain a Safe Speed

Practice responsible boating by maintaining a safe and appropriate speed at all times. Adhere to posted speed limits and reduce speed in congested areas, near docks, piers, boat ramps, and anywhere there may be swimmers or when visibility is limited. Controlled speed enhances maneuverability and helps prevent accidents, ensuring the safety of both you and others on the water.

8. Monitor Weather Conditions

Stay informed about weather forecasts before and during your boating trip. Sudden storms, high winds, or dense fog can present hazardous conditions. If inclement weather is predicted, consider rescheduling your outing or seeking shelter until conditions improve. Prioritizing safety over convenience is critical when it comes to boating in Louisiana’s ever-changing weather.

9. Do Not Drink While Boating

Operating a boat while under the influence of alcohol or drugs poses significant risks to yourself, your passengers, and other boaters. If you plan to drink, designate a sober operator or abstain from consuming alcohol while boating.

The legal blood alcohol content (BAC) limit for boating in Louisiana is the same as for driving: 0.08%. If you are caught operating a boat with a BAC of 0.08% or above, you will be subject to potential suspension or revocation of your boating privileges and driver’s license.

10. Practice Responsible Boating

Respect the environment and other boaters by practicing responsible boating habits. Dispose of trash properly, minimize noise pollution, and adhere to no-wake zones and restricted areas. Protect Louisiana’s beautiful waterways for future generations by adopting environmentally friendly boating practices.

We Can Help if You are Injured in a Boating Accident

Boaters have legal responsibilities to the people on their boat and on other boats. For example, if a boat operator in Louisiana is involved in an accident, they must stop and offer assistance to the other people involved.

They must also report the accident to the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Law Enforcement Division or the nearest law enforcement agency if the accident causes serious injuries or a fatality, someone disappears, or there is property damage over $500.

If you or someone you love was injured in a boating accident in Louisiana and you need legal assistance getting compensation for your medical expenses and other financial damages, reach out to Dudley DeBosier Injury Lawyers today for a free case review.  

This content has been reviewed by Chad Lederman, Director of Legal Operations at our New Orleans office.

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