RI Boating Accident Report

Rhode Island boating accident report must be filled out by the owner/operator of any vessel that is involved in a boating accident on the inland waters and the coastal waters contiguous to this state that meets the following criteria:

1. Loss of life or disappearance from a vessel.
2. Injury to any person that requires medical treatment beyond ordinary first aid. (if you go to the emergency room or call a rescue, it is beyond first aid)
3. Property damage in excess of $2000.00 (combined damage to both vessels if more than one vessel is involved)
4. Complete loss of a vessel.

Reportable accidents must be submitted within five (5) days after the incident on forms provided by the department. Accidents must be reported to the State Authorities where the accident occurred. If more than one vessel is involved, the owner/operator of all vessels must fill out and file a boating accident report. When filling out a boating accident report, ensure that all of the blocks are filled out completely.

1. Most information about your boat can be found on the registration card.
2. Both the operator's and the owner's information is required to be completed.
3. Addresses should be complete, including zip codes.
4. Damage estimates MUST be filled out. (Best guess estimate is acceptable and changed as information is received).
5. Accident description should be as clear and accurate as possible. Diagrams can be included by uploading a file to the form, if necessary. Include any information as to the involvement of alcohol or drugs in the cause or contributing to the accident. Include any descriptive information about the use of lifejackets (PFDs) that may have contributed to the survival or assistance of anyone involved.

If you have any difficulty with/or questions regarding the BOATING ACCIDENT FORM, you may call this office at (401) 222-3070 during normal business hours, and your call will be referred to an Environmental Police Officer for assistance.

RIGL 46-22-21 requires that any operator or owner of a vessel involved in an accident that results in death, personal injury beyond first aid, or damage to the vessel(s) and/or property that exceeds $2000.00 must report the accident IMMEDIATELY to Rhode Island Environmental Police, USCG or local authorities. RIGL 46-22-5(j)/Rule14(2) requires that any operator or owner of a vessel involved in an accident that results in death, personal injury beyond first aid, or damage to the vessel(s) and/or property that exceeds $2000.00 must submit a BOATING ACCIDENT REPORT to the Rhode Island Environmental Police within five (5) days of the accident.