I am constructing a new nose cover for the boat for Kayley. I got a great deal on a big boat cover in the bargain cave and I have chopped it to cover just the front of the boat. I have created a support for it - where the height is roughly 2 ft above the top of my side console.
I cannot see the exact front of my boat while sitting - but can see around it very easily - got into the boat and checked. While standing - it's not an issue at all. For safety sake the top is easily removed so if I need to take it down [or put it up] it will only take a few seconds.
I want to make sure that the slight obstruction while sitting isn't going to break any regulations - if it does I can lower it to the point where it would be legal. But then I need to know what is legal...
She's growing like a weed and I stil want some type of protection for her in windy/rainy days. I think that is one of the major reasons why she loves to fish so much - the weather really has no effect on her experience... Of course, it has an effect on me :-)
#1194598 - 03/22/1012:12 PM
Re: Are there any regulations regarding the height of a nose/spray cover
[Re: firehawk]
EnCon Police Moderator
Registered: 03/01/04
Posts: 3899
If you can't see over or around it, it may be an issue. The statute that would probably apply would be regarding preventing collisions.
Sec. 15-131. Rules for preventing collisions. (7) The operator of a vessel shall at all times maintain a proper lookout required by the ordinary practice of seamen and by the special circumstances of the case.
If you modify the boat and don't have an accident, no problem. But, if you modify the boat and have an accident because you could not see an obstruction or another boat then you did not (were not able to) maintain a proper lookout.
There may be US Coast Guard regulations too, you would need to check with them.
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