The Georgia House of Representatives passed legislation that addresses liability issues pertaining to boat rentals, leases and charters.
House Bill 994 places liability with any individual who rents, leases or charters a boat and operates it in a negligent way. Additionally, the bill provides protections for rental businesses. If businesses have insurance coverage of at least $250,000 per person and $500,000 per occurrence, the companies would not be held liable as vessel owners for accidents caused by renters, given they meet the following conditions:
• The renter must be reasonably skilled in operating the watercraft.
• Renters must meet applicable safety requirements.
• The watercraft must be in safe operating condition, as determined by inspection.
• The watercraft must be maintained in safe condition by the livery business.
According to a statement, the legislation mandates that rental operations display proof of insurance and provide renters with a disclaimer explaining that the livery is insured but that renters may be personally liable for any damages or injuries.
The bill was first read in the Georgia Senate and referred to the Senate Committee on Insurance and Labor.
