4VAC15-390-140: Riding on decks and gunwales

It shall be unlawful for the operator of a motorboat to operate a vessel while any person is riding or sitting on the bow, gunwales, or transom or on the decking over the bow of the vessel while under power unless such motorboat is provided with adequate guards or railing to prevent passengers from falls overboard. Nothing in this section shall be construed to mean that passengers or other persons aboard a watercraft cannot occupy these areas of the vessel to moor or anchor the watercraft, to cast off, or for any other necessary purpose. Any person who violates any provision of this section shall be guilty of a Class 1 misdemeanor as provided by § 29.1-738 of the Code of Virginia.