The effects of state regulations on boating accidents and fatalities

Abstract

Various federal and state regulations on recreational boating were enacted with the intention of reducing recreational boating accidents and fatalities. Based on multivariate analysis of state regulations on recreational boating and boating statistics from 1990 to 1994, this study indicates that laws and educational programmes focusing on youths are effective in reducing boating accidents and fatalities. The empirical results suggest that the minimum age requirement for boat operators is a significant factor in reducing boating accidents and fatalities. Furthermore, states which offer boating safety classes as part of their public school curriculum have significantly less boating accidents than states which do not. On the other hand implied consent laws and mandatory education for boat operators are not statistically significant factors in reducing boating accidents and fatalities. Mandatory wearing of personal floating devices may have offsetting effects on boating by inducing more ‘driving’ intensity.