Melissa Boat Accident Lawyer

What to Do Immediately After a Boat Crash

On top of various regulations for mandatory boat education classes, vessel maintenance, and safety gear necessary to store on board, the Texas Parks and Wildlife Code also establishes rules that watercraft operators must follow in the event of an accident out on the water. First, under Texas Parks and Wildlife Code §31.104, any boat operator who finds themselves involved in a collision or other waterborne incident must immediately stop their vessel and render aid to any other involved party who needs it, so long as doing so would not put themselves, their vessel, or their passengers at risk of serious harm. They must also provide their name, address, and identifying information about their vessel to all involved parties.

If a boat accident results in a personal injury, fatality, or more than $2,000 worth of property damage, Tex. P.W.C. §31.105 requires all involved operators to file a written report about the incident with the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department within 30 days of its occurrence. While this report is confidential and cannot be admitted in court as evidence of criminal activity, fulfilling this legal requirement is effectively a prerequisite to successful civil recovery. A boat accident attorney in Melissa could provide guidance about these and other requirements, as well as assistance meeting them if necessary.