SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/boat-duty-to-assist-penalty

When does federal law require a boat's operator to help someone in danger at sea?

Up to $1,000 and 2 years in prison.

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  1. When help is possible without serious danger aboard ✔
  2. Only after the Coast Guard orders it
  3. Only when the person asks for help

Why: Federal law requires the person in charge to help anyone found at sea in danger of being lost when this can be done without serious danger to the boat or people aboard.

Huh, didn't know that: The duty does not apply to a vessel of war or a U.S. government vessel appropriated only to public service.

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What kind of boat does a judge love? A courtship.
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References

Answer: When help is possible without serious danger aboard. Federal law requires the person in charge to help anyone found at sea in danger of being lost when this can be done without serious danger to the boat or people aboard.

  1. United States Code, 2024 Edition, Title 46, Section 2304 www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/USCODE-2024-title46/pdf/USCODE-2024-title46-subtitleII.pdf
    A master or individual in charge of a vessel shall render assistance to any individual found at sea in danger of being lost
    Checked 2026-10-09.
  2. United States Code, 2024 Edition, Title 46, Section 2304 www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/USCODE-2024-title46/pdf/USCODE-2024-title46-subtitleII.pdf
    so far as the master or individual in charge can do so without serious danger
    Checked 2026-10-09.

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