ATX 22 Type-S, Owner'S Manual

Page: 28 / 100

BOATING SAFETY | 27
Visibility

WARNING
Obstructed visibility can cause death or serious injury . Maintain clear visibility
at all times . Arrange passengers and equipment for maximum visibility or
designate a passenger to assist when visibility is limited .
The operator of the boat is responsible by law to “maintain a proper lookout
by sight and hearing .” The operator must ensure that he/she has appropri-
ate visibility for safe operation . No passengers or equipment should block the
operator’s view outward or of other boats, skier, rider, swimmer, or anyone in
the water . Even momentary interference can result in the driver’s inability to
respond to a situation that requires avoidance of another vessel or submerged
or partially-submerged objects . Look carefully before turning, especially when
you are turning around to pick up a fallen skier/rider . Someone else may not
be following the “Rules of the Road .” Keep a visual check for boats behind your
boat . This is an area where accidents can happen very quickly . The boat should
not be driven at a rate of speed faster than will allow it to be brought to a full
stop within the operator’s field of view .
Boating Under the Influence

DANGER
Operating a boat under the influence of alcohol can cause serious
injury or death .
Boating, alcohol, and the use of other drugs just do not mix . Boating under the
influence of alcohol or drugs can be deadly . Boating, coupled with alcohol and
other drugs results in many marine accidents and deaths accounting for approxi-
mately one third of all recreational boating fatalities . These substances decrease
your reaction time and impair your judgment . Combined with the sun, wind,
waves, and noise of other watercraft, the effects of drugs are increased and
will significantly increase your reaction time . As the owner/operator, you are
responsible for the alcohol/drug use and onboard behavior of your passengers .

WARNING
Federal and state laws prohibit operating a boat under the influence of
alcohol and other drugs . These regulations are actively enforced . Impaired
operation may result in severe personal injury or death .

WARNING
If the operator’s blood alcohol content is above the legal limit, violators are sub-
ject to fines and you can go to jail . You may also lose your automobile driving
privileges .
Additionally, civil lawsuits in cases of property damage or injury/death to others can
result in significantly higher verdicts when alcohol or drugs are allowed .
Reporting Accidents
Boat operators may be required by law to file a Boating Accident report with
their state boating law enforcement agency or local authority, the USCG, or