Re: [Paddlewise] Rules of the road

Here is what I found at the North Carolina Wildlife Resource Commision Site,
http://www.state.nc.us/Wildlife/Boating/ncvpart3.html#Operation of Vessels.

My understanding is that the states follow USCG regulations when it comes to
navigation, safety issues, etc.

I know there are issues about where does the USCG vs local/state law enforcement
have jurisdiction.  Part of what I heard many years ago in Florida, and I don't
know if it was every resolved, was the if you could float a boat it was
navigable waters.  If it was a navigable water then the USCG had jurisdiction.
Of couse so did the local/state agencies.  The "rule" was if it was fresh water
the USCG did not want to get involved.  It became interesting when the
intercoastal waterway was an issue.

Hope this helps....
Dan McCarty

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Rules of the Road

Safe navigation is very largely a matter of boating courtesy, or the observation
 of the "golden rule" in marine traffic. Certain navigational "rules of the
road"
should be understood and adhered to by those who share the use of our public
waters. Observance of the "rules of the road" is required by North
Carolina law, and failure to observe them is imprudent and could constitute
reckless and negligent operation..

Meeting
                  When two watercraft approach each other from opposite
directions "heads on", each must alter course to the right to avoid
                  collision. If the two watercraft are far enough to the left of
 each other so that no change in direction is needed for safe passage,
                  both will maintain their course and speed to pass clear.
Crossing
                  When two watercraft approach each other at an angle, the one
on the right has the right-of-way and the other must stay clear.
Restricted Maneuverability

Sailboats not under power and boats propelled by oars or paddles have the
right-of-way over motorboats except in an overtaking situation where the
vessel being overtaken always has the right-of-way. Small pleasure craft must
yield to large commercial vessels in narrow channels.

Passing

When one watercraft overtakes another going in the same direction, the craft
being overtaken must maintain course and speed, and the passing watercraft
must keep a sufficient distance to avoid collision or endangering the other
craft from its wake.

Speed and Control

All watercraft must be operated at reasonable speeds for given situations and
must be under the complete control of the operator at all times.

Danger Areas

Watercraft passing close to swimming areas, moored boats, or boats engaged in
fishing, servicing buoys or markings, or similar activities, must reduce
their speed so as to prevent their wash or wake from causing damage or danger to
 swimmers or other occupants of the area or other watercraft.


***************************************************************************
PaddleWise Paddling Mailing List
Submissions:     paddlewise_at_lists.intelenet.net
Subscriptions:   paddlewise-request_at_lists.intelenet.net
Website:         http://www.gasp-seakayak.net/paddlewise/
***************************************************************************