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npb4me
03-13-2003, 10:48 AM
Is it illegal to have people sitting or laying on the back of your boat when you are cruising through the channel in Havasu? I see a lot of pictures of people doing this but I don't wanna get a ticket for it during Spring Break. Thanks..............

Craig
03-13-2003, 10:56 AM
Arizona Boating Laws, Revised Statute Title 5
5-341. Negligent operation of watercraft or water skis; restriction in operation of watercraft; violation; classification
A. No person shall operate a watercraft in a careless, reckless or negligent manner.
B. A person shall not operate a watercraft while allowing a person to ride on the gunwales, the transom or the decked over bow of a watercraft propelled by machinery operating in excess of wakeless speed except if:
1. That portion of the watercraft was designed and constructed for the purpose of carrying passengers at all speeds.
2. The watercraft is being maneuvered for anchoring, mooring or casting off moorings.
C. No watercraft shall be operated with a passenger or passengers on the bow in such a manner as to obstruct the view of the operator.
So it appears that as long as you're at "wakeless speed" you're OK. The caveat here though is Section A, which basically gives the officer judgement to say something is "careless, reckless or negligent". Now you could dispute that fact in court, but as long as you not being an asshole, they probably won't hassle anyone.
Craig
[ March 13, 2003, 11:05 AM: Message edited by: Craig ]

XLGPP
03-13-2003, 12:30 PM
I almost went to jail few years ago for waiving a "show your tits" flag (which I bought there). Of course I was being an asshole when they pulled me over in the middle of the channel for it. Note: be nice and cooperative and they are usually ok.

npb4me
03-13-2003, 01:08 PM
Thanks guys, I think I will take my chances. If you see my rig around, say hi. My name is Dustin. http://www.geocities.com/tiracing.geo/MVC-0150F.JPG

Boatcop
03-13-2003, 02:44 PM
If you've got people on the back of your boat while idling through the channel (or anywhere else), keep an eye on them.
At idle, carbon monoxide fumes concentrate in that area. (especially on ski boats with the swim platform) A person sitting back there could pass out and fall into the water before they (or you) know what's happening.
It happened a few years ago in the channel to a 9 year old boy. Diver's didn't find him for 10 days.
And don't get me started on why he wasn't in a PFD! :mad: