Lake Martin Topics: Right of way

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	Name:	JUA -
	Subject:	Right of way
	Date:	7/12/2005 10:37:44 AM

I don't think boats pulling skiers have any special rights to right of way over other vessels. They are subject to the same "danger zone" as other vessels. That's the way our (TN) law reads and in FL. Alabama was that way unless it was changed.
You may have it confused with the vessels in tow regulations. They apply to narrow waterways and concern tow boats, etc., but not boats pulling skiers. Same for fishing boats who are trolling. Normal ROW rules also apply to the water skis with motors (jetskis).
Maybe GB can weigh in on this.
The way I alway look at it, the largest or fastest boat will win in a mishap, so I made sure to avoid the them by a wide margin, no matter where they are crossing.

You are 100-percent correct on the boater being responsible for wake damage. However, I'm sure a boat in a dock without any bumpers would have a hard time with a claim since wind could toss the boat around, too. Many of the cove skiers might not have insurance, so it will cost more than a boat's worth to sue in court for refief. Would you insure some of these boaters????