Latorre Insurance is a licensed independent insurance brokerage serving North and South Carolina, with offices in Charlotte, Greensboro, and Raleigh.
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It’s almost time to pack up the cars for Fourth of July weekend, and chances are, you’re already planning and preparing for the weekend.
Each Fourth of July, the most popular activity to engage in is, you guessed it, boating. And while it’s important to enjoy your time on the boat, it’s also important to be aware of the safety measures that need to be taken on the water (which can be easy to forget when you’re having fun!)
The state of North Carolina has several boating laws and regulations that you might not be aware of but that are essential to the safety of the boat and its passengers.
For example, not many remember that children under the age of 13 must, at all times, wear a life jacket while underway, and children under the age of 14 are prohibited from operating a personal water craft. A child between the ages of 14 and 16 can operate a personal watercraft if they are accompanied by an adult over the age of 18.
North Carolina law also states that residents born after January 1, 1988, who operate a watercraft of 10 horsepower or greater, must have completed the NASBLA boating safety course with a passing grade of 70% or above.
If you’re planning on waterskiing, remember that North Carolina law states that water skiing is prohibited from one hour after sunset to one hour before sunrise. And when you are waterskiing, be sure to have an observer or mirror present.
Many of you will likely partake in a few alcoholic beverages this weekend, which brings us to our next point: Be safe and smart if you plan on drinking on the water. In North Carolina, .08 is the level of BAC (blood alcohol content) at which someone is considered to be intoxicated, and death or serious injury caused by an impaired driver is now considered a felony, rather than a misdemanor. All officials are constantly strengthening their BUI laws to ensure that everyone on the water is safe.
We’re wishing you a happy and safe Fourth of July! May your weekend be full of family, fun and fireworks!
And remember, if you do need assistance dealing with a BUI, we’re here to help.
Latorre Insurance is a licensed independent insurance brokerage serving North and South Carolina, with offices in Charlotte, Greensboro, and Raleigh.
