As a boat or yacht owner, you wouldn’t like to see your vessel being damaged, but there is a great likelihood that this may happen.  Some people still confuse collision and allision, but there is a huge difference between the two. To help draw a distinction between the two; it’s important that you know how to define the two.

What is the collision? 

A collision can be defined as an event when two vessels that are in motion collide. In some cases, this may injure or in the worst scenario kill people on board, and leave boats involved in an accident completely damaged. Collisions are most likely to happen when you operate in unfamiliar surroundings. But they can still happen in familiar surroundings as well.

What is an allision?

According to maritime law, an allision can be defined as a situation where a vessel or a ship runs into another that is not in motion. Factors that can influence allision include a stationary boat that fails to display proper signaling or lighting. Or, a stationary boat that is too small, therefore invisible in foggy weather. What’s most worrying about allision is that it can cost you thousands of dollars, even though caused by someone else.

How to avoid allision

The best way to avoid allision is to make sure that your boat is recognizable. You can do this by illuminating it with flashing lights, a flag, and similar objects that can draw the attention of other boat operators. Technology has provided a solution for boat operators to get instant notifications about objects and stationary boats. You can also use a GPS or navigation aid that will tell you if you are approaching a supertanker or a stationary boat. The good news is, most boats come fully equipped with GPSs.

Drinking and Using Your Boat

It is also advisable that you should avoid drinking and operating your boat. No matter what stress you might be having, just don’t resort to drinking irresponsibly. If you do will be putting your life and that of your passengers in danger. According to research, being exposed to wind, and the sun for a prolonged period of time affect your ability to react to danger. This problem becomes aggravated when you consume copious amounts of alcohol.

If you are operating a yacht, always be on the lookout for smaller boats. They are often hard to spot, especially in bad weather. Jet Skis and motorboats traveling at a faster speed can cause tremendous damage to your vessel, and even harm you. Additionally, always check the weather forecast before you embark on a voyage. If the weather is not good for travel, you might want to postpone it for another day. And never make the mistake of leaving your vessel without unstepping a mast and using a strong mooring line to prevent it from being blown.

Lastly, because no one knows when boat allision will happen, always make sure that your boat is insured. Apart from allision and collusion, your boat has a risk of being damaged by storms, malicious damage, fire, or getting stolen. The sooner you insure your boat, the better.

 

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