watercraft accidents;
reporting requirements
SB 1248 increases the penalty for negligent operation of a watercraft from a class 3 to a class 2 misdemeanor and establishes a minimum threshold for reporting accidents that cause property damage to watercraft. In addition, SB 1248 provides that except for violations regarding collisions, operating a watercraft while intoxicated, negligent operation and refusal to allow inspection of watercraft, all other boating and watersport violations are reduced to a petty offense ($300).
Current statutes require watercraft operators involved in a “collision, accident or other casualty” resulting in death or injury to file a written report with the Arizona Game and Fish Department within 48 hours. For all other accidents involving property damage, the report must be filed within five days. These reports may be used for statistical purposes but cannot be used as evidence in court. In addition, any peace officer that investigates any watercraft accident is required by law to prepare and submit a report to the Department.
According to the Department, the Coast Guard requires reports to be submitted for accidents involving property damage over $500. The Coast Guard reports can be used for statistical purposes.
According to the Department, there were approximately 419 watercraft accidents reported in Arizona in 1999. Of the reported accidents, 100 caused less than $500 property damage.