Tougher Penalties for Leaving Scene of Boat Accidents

In New Jersey, state law demands that boat operators involved in an accident stop and help any injured persons, assuming they can do so without risking harm to themselves.

A new law just signed into existence raises the stakes for leaving the scene of an accident. If the accident results in a death, fleeing the scene is punishable by between five and 10 years in prison. If the accident results in serious injury, an absent boat operator can receive up to five years in prison.

The new law was inspired when Robert Post of Point Pleasant was killed after a power boat ran over his Boston Whaler.

The power boat’s driver, Anthony DiGilio, was charged with vehicular homicide and two counts of assault by vessel. DiGilio maintained he’d thought he hit a log, and did not know he’d hit another boat.

After a short trial, he was acquitted of all charges. Under this new law, he may not have been so fortunate.

Robert Post’s widow, Bonnie, was instrumental in creating the new legislature, and told reporters that the law was “the silver lining of a tragedy.” With the growing popularity of recreational boating, the new law comes at a perfect time. We need to ensure that boat operators adhere to proper safety measures, in order that we may prevent further tragic boating accidents such as this one.

I Was in a Recreational Boating Accident and I Need a Maritime Attorney

All it takes is a single mistake by a careless boater to turn an exciting day on the water into a lifelong nightmare. If you have lost a loved one in a recreational boating accident, you need a maritime attorney you can trust.

At Latti & Anderson LLP, we can secure the compensation you and your family deserve. Call us today to schedule a free consultation.

Latti & Anderson’s Little Extra: According to the American Boating Association (ABA), operator inattention and inexperience, improper lookout, machinery failure and excessive speed rank as the top five primary contributing factors in accidents.

Latti & Anderson LLP – Nationwide Maritime Attorneys

Source: http://www.nj.com/ocean/index.ssf/2014/07/christie_toughens_penalties_for_leaving_scene_of_boat_accident.html