MISSOURI STATE HIGHWAY PATROL
a division of the
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY

Troop F Headquarters - 2920 North Shamrock Road - Jefferson City, MO 65102
NEWS RELEASE

For further information please contact: Sergeant Scott B. White
573-751-1000
F170601
June 16, 2017

EMPHASIS: Troop F Reminds Boaters About Navigation Lights

Captain Michael A. Turner, commanding officer, Troop F, Jefferson City, reminds boaters about the proper use of navigation lights while on the water.

Troopers on Lake of the Ozarks reported several encounters with vessels failing to properly display navigation lights since Memorial Day weekend. Preliminary statistics from May 26, 2017, through June 12, 2017, indicate troopers issued 12 citations and 84 warnings to boaters for navigation lights burned out, displaying lights other than prescribed on a watercraft, or not displaying navigation lights.

The required navigation lights differ depending on the type and size of your vessel. State law requires boat operators to display the required navigation lights between sunset and sunrise.

Generally speaking, vessels are required to display a red light on the port (left) side of the vessel and a green light displayed on the starboard (right) side. The red and green lights should be visible from at least one mile away on a dark, clear night. Additionally, an all-around white light must be visible from at least two miles on a dark, clear night. Section 306.100 RSMo. provides the complete description of vessel navigation lights based on the length of the vessel. Section 306.100 RSMo. can be read in its entirety here: https://www.moga.mo.gov/mostatutes/stathtml/30600001001.HTML

There are various combinations of lights which meet the requirements by state law. Navigation lights are imperative on the water at night to prevent boat accidents. Navigation on the water at night is unique in that your lights are designed so other boaters are able to see you and determine the direction you are traveling, but your navigation lights will not necessarily help you see better at night. It is illegal to display spotlights or docking lights continuously, but those lights may be used briefly to identify hazards in the water.

Missouri has a 30 mph nighttime speed limit effective 30 minutes after sunset to one hour before sunrise. Depending on visibility, it may be prudent for boaters to travel much slower than the 30 mph speed limit at night.

“If you will be out on the water after dark, check your navigation lights before you leave the dock or ramp.” stated Captain Turner. “When boaters understand and obey the law, and vessels are in good operating order, everyone’s experience on the water becomes safer.” Do your part to make our waterways safe at night by displaying proper navigation lights and by reducing your speed when visibility is limited.

Watercraft operators must consider the effect their actions have on others: Share the waterway and use common sense, good judgment, and courtesy to ensure the safety of all. Life jackets save lives. Wear It!!
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