Regulations; Responsibilities - Axis A20 Manual

Boating Safety

Regulations

The U.S. Coast Guard is the governing authority of United States waterways and is there
to help the boating public. State boating regulations are enforced by local authorities. You
are subject to marine traffic laws and "Rules of the Road" for both federal and state
waterways; you must stop if signaled to do so by enforcement officers and permit to be
boarded, if asked.

Responsibilities

Registration
Federal Law requires that all motorboats be registered and that all motorcraft not
documented by the U.S. Coast Guard display registration numbers. In nearly all states,
this means registration with the designated state agency. In a few jurisdictions, the Coast
Guard retains registration authority. Your Axis dealer will either supply registration forms
or tell you where they may be obtained. The agency will supply you with a certificate
which must be carried with you when the boat is in operation.
Education
If you have never owned a boat before, you can get an excellent introduction to boat
handling from organizations such as the U.S. Coast Guard, American Red Cross or your
local authority. Even if you are a veteran boater, these courses will help sharpen your
boating skills as well as bring you up to date on current rules and regulations. See your
local boating agency or Axis dealer for information on classes in your area.
Insurance
The boat owner is legally responsible for damages or injuries he or she causes. Common
sense dictates that you carry adequate personal liability and property damage insurance
on your boat, just as you would on your automobile. You should also protect your
investment from physical damage or theft.
Restricted Areas
Before boating, check with Local, State and Federal authorities to identify restricted
areas. Because of the threat of terrorism, the U.S. Coast Guard has and will continue to
implement strict limits on watercraft near U.S. Navy and Coast Guard ships and other
potential targets.
Our Environment
As a boater, you already appreciate nature's beauty and the peace of the great outdoors. It
is a boater's responsibility to protect the natural environment by keeping waterways
clean. DO NOT put anything in the water you would not want to eat or drink!
Conserve Fishery Resources
There is a tremendous drain on our fishery resources. Over-fishing and pollution have
strained the fish population. Do your part by keeping only what you will eat by practicing
catch-and-release.
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