Malibu Boats 21 VLX, Owner'S Manual

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boat without first checking that it is clear to do so. Failure to look before turning can result in an encounter with
another boat where neither boat has enough time to avoid a collision. This situation can develop very quickly if
you fail to look first, and turn in front of another oncoming boat.
Obstructed visibility can cause death or serious injury. The operator must
maintain clear visibility at all times while operating the boat. Arrange
passengers and equipment appropriately or designate a passenger to assist
when visibility is limited.
Boating Under the Influence
Operating the boat or boating under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs
can cause serious injury or death. Alcohol and drugs slow your reaction time
and impair your judgment. Do not operate a boat or allow passengers to
boat while under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.
Boating under the influence of alcohol or drugs can be deadly. Alcohol and/or drug use is the leading
contributing factor to all recreational boating fatalities. Alcohol and drugs can increase your reaction time and
impair your judgment. Combined with the sun, wind, waves, and noise of other watercraft, the effects of drugs
and alcohol can be increased and can significantly increase your reaction time. As the owner/operator, you are
responsible for the alcohol/drug use and onboard behavior of your passengers. 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.
Impaired operation may result in severe personal injury or death. Federal
and state laws prohibit operating a boat under the influence of alcohol and
other drugs. If the operator’s blood alcohol content is above the legal limit,
violators are subject to fines and may go to jail. Violators may also lose
automobile driving privileges.
Product Misuse
Misuse of the product or use of it in a manner for which it was never intended can create dangerous
situations. The boat operator and passengers are responsible for using the product safely and as intended. The
driver must operate the boat in a manner that ensures the safety of all passengers. If you or your passengers are
unsure about the proper use of the product, unsure about performing certain boating maneuvers or are unsure
about a particular water activity, refer to this owner’s manual or contact a knowledgeable source, such as your
local dealer, the US Coast Guard, or your local boating authority.
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 their country’s boating law enforcement agency when their
boat is involved in certain boating accidents. A boating accident must be reported if there is a loss or probable
loss of life or a personal injury requiring medical attention beyond first aid. In these situations, a formal report
must generally be filed within 48 hours of the accident. Also a boating accident must be reported for accidents
when damage exceeding $500 is incurred, or there is a complete loss of the boat. In these situations, a formal
report must generally be filed within 10 days. If any of these events occur, seek further assistance from local
2020 Malibu Boats LLC • Owner’s Manual • Page 23