KIRK FISHER - STOCK.ADOBE.COM PHOTOThe Georgia House of Representatives unanimously approved the senate’s substitute bill for House Bill 994. Sponsored by Rep. Alan Powell and carried in the senate by Sen. Matt Brass, the legislation focuses on liability issues related to renting, leasing and chartering boats.
Under the new legislation, when someone rents, leases or charters a boat and operates it negligently, the operator would be responsible for any resulting injuries or damages. The bill also offers protection for rental businesses. If a business has insurance coverage of at least $500,000 per person and $1 million per occurrence, the livery wouldn’t be held liable as the vessel owner for accidents caused by renters, provided they meet certain conditions.
The business must ensure the renter is reasonably skilled at operating the boat. The renter must meet applicable safety requirements. The boat must be in safe operating condition, as determined by an inspection, and must be maintained by the livery business.
“HB 994 mandates that boat liveries display proof of insurance at their rental locations and provide renters with a disclaimer explaining that the livery is insured, but renters may be personally liable for any damages or injuries,” the National Marine Manufacturers Association said in a statement.
The bill is headed to Gov. Brian Kemp for final approval.
