Personal Watercraft Flashcards

What is one of the most common causes of PWC-related fatalities?

Answer: Collision with another vessel or fixed object

Collisions with other vessels, fixed objects, or submerged hazards are the leading cause of PWC-related fatalities.

Under Alabama law, who is responsible for the safe operation of a PWC when a minor is the operator?

Answer: The parent or supervising adult

The parent or supervising adult is legally responsible for ensuring minor operators comply with Alabama boating laws.

A PWC traveling in the same direction as another vessel — who has the right of way?

Answer: The overtaking vessel must yield to the vessel being passed

The vessel overtaking another must yield and keep clear — the vessel being overtaken maintains its course and speed.

Which condition makes PWC operation especially hazardous and should prompt an operator to return to shore?

Answer: Increasing wave heights and darkening skies

Increasing wave heights and darkening skies signal an approaching storm, which dramatically increases the risk of capsizing and hypothermia.

What information must be displayed on a registered PWC in Alabama?

Answer: The registration number and validation decal

Alabama requires the registration number and current validation decal to be displayed on the hull in the prescribed format.

When operating a PWC near a beach or swim area, which rule applies?

Answer: Keep at least 100 feet from designated swim areas

PWC operators must stay at least 100 feet from designated swimming areas to protect swimmers from injury.

What should a PWC operator do when encountering a vessel displaying a diver-down flag?

Answer: Slow to idle speed and stay at least 100 feet away

Operators must reduce to idle speed and stay at least 100 feet (300 feet in open water) from a vessel displaying a diver-down flag.