All boat operators in Ohio are required to follow state boat accident reporting laws and requirements.
How to Report a Boat Accident in Ohio
Ohio’s boat accident reporting requirements state that boat operators who are involved in a collision or boat accident are required to:
- Stop their boat at the scene.
- Render assistance to any person who has been injured or who is in danger so long as they can do so without risking their safety or their passenger’s safety.
- Provide their name, address and boat information in writing, to any person who was injured, and to the owner of any property that was damaged as a result of the accident.
Accident Reporting
An official Boat Accident Report Form must be filed when:
- A person is killed or lost (within 24 hours).
- A person is injured and required medical attention beyond first aid (within 5 days).
- There is damage to property totaling more than $500 or there is complete loss of the boat (within 5 days).
According to Ohio’s boat accident reporting requirements, the operator must file a full report on an official form. If the operator is incapacitated, an officer shall file the form.
State-approved Boat Accident Report Form
- Download the form here: http://watercraft.ohiodnr.gov/forms
- Contact a Watercraft Field Office
- Or call 1-877-4BOATER (Ohio Only)
Send the completed form to:
Recreational Boating Accident Program Manager
2045 Morse Road
Building C
Columbus, Ohio 43229
Violation Resulting in Injury or Damage is Evidence of Negligence
Violations of watercraft law that result in injury to person or damage to property shall constitute prima-facie evidence of negligence in a civil action.