Careless and Reckless Boat Operation

Illinois’ Reckless boat operation:

It is illegal in the state of Illinois to operate any boat or manipulate any waterskis, aquaplane or similar device in a careless, reckless or negligent manner so as to endanger the life, limb or property of any person.

Examples of violations of Illinois’ reckless boat operation laws may include:

• Operating in a swimming area.
• Weaving through congested traffic.
• Jumping the wake of another boat unreasonably close to the other boat.
• Waiting until the last possible moment to swerve to avoid a collision.
• Creating a hazardous wake.
• Allowing passengers to ride on the bow, seat-back, gunwale or transom of a boat.
• Overloading a boat beyond the safe carrying capacity.

Note: Any person who by the operation of any boat in a careless, reckless, or negligent manner shall cause the death of another, shall be guilty of the crime of negligent homicide

Speed Limits and Operation in Restricted Areas

Speed Restrictions

It is illegal to operate at speeds which do not allow the boat operator to bring the boat to a stop within the assured clear distance ahead.

It is illegal to operate in a restricted zones or ‘No Wake’ area that has been marked by buoys or signs such as a fishing or swimming areas. In areas designated as ‘No Wake’ areas, no motorized boat shall exceed a speed of 5 miles per hour (mph) while in the posted ‘No Wake’ area.

Additionally, no person shall operate a boat within 150 feet of a public launching ramp owned, operated or maintained by the Department or a political subdivision of the state at greater than ‘No Wake’ speed. Posting of the areas is not required.

Note: Any person who by the operation of any boat at an immoderate rate of speed shall cause the death of another, shall be guilty of the crime of negligent homicide.