Reckless Operation

A vessel shall be operated in a reasonable and prudent manner at all times. Ohio law prohibits reckless operation of a boat or a PWC.

• No person shall operate a vessel, water ski, or similar device:
  • Carelessly or heedlessly
  • Without due caution
  • In disregard of the rights or safety of any person, vessel, or property
  • At a rate of speed or in a manner so as to endanger any person, vessel, or property
• No person shall operate or permit operation of a vessel in an unsafe manner. Unsafe operation includes:
  • Becoming airborne while crossing the wake of another vessel within 100 feet or an unsafe distance
  • Operating at a speed or in proximity to a vessel or person being towed so as to require either vessel to swerve to avoid collision
  • Operating less than 200 feet behind a water-skier
  • Weaving through congested traffic
• Operators of belly boats, kiteboards, paddleboards, and sailboards also must follow the navigation rules and obey all operating laws.