KRS 235.300: Civil liability for negligent operation.

The operator of a vessel or motorboat shall be liable for any injury or damage occasioned

by the negligent operation of such vessel or motorboat, whether such negligence consists

of a violation of the provisions of the statutes of this state or neglecting to observe such

ordinary care and operation as the rules of the common law require. Where the owner is

not the operator of the vessel or motorboat he shall not be liable for such injury or

damage unless such owner is aboard the vessel or motorboat at the t ime of such injury or

damage or unless the operator at such time of injury or damage is operating said boat

upon the owner's business or in the course and scope of his employment with the owner.

The "Family Purpose Doctrine" as it is applied in the use and operation of automobiles

shall be applicable to the use and operation of vessels or motorboats. Nothing contained

herein shall be construed to relieve any other person from any liability which he would

otherwise have, but nothing contained herein shall be construed to authorize or permit

any recovery in excess of injury or damage actually incurred.