Drunk Boating

[Gunfleet]

100% agree. I also don't drink. Freedom and proportionality is the issue, not drinking. There seems to be a class of person in Britain which is absolutely determined to legislate for absolutely everything. It's always excused by something like 'well if you don't commit an offence it won't be a problem.' It will lead to disaster and is just the sort of argument (taken to an extreme) used by Nazis and Soviets.

 

[jimbaerselman]

Well, the authorities have exactly that sort of power in many Mediterranean countries. As I said, the style of the Napoleonic code . . . yet you sail in the Mediterranean?

Remember, we are talking about damage done to third parties through recklessness or drunkeness, and we are only talking about action after such an event. What the police are doing in this case is providing a strong incentive towards more careful behaviour.

You'll know about the bail bond issue in Spain to get you out of gaol after road accidents involving third parties . . . same idea.

 

[Anonymous]

I believe that bail bonds are ancient history in Spain. I am not aware of any Spanish legislation about alcohol consumption and boating (though the drink drive limit is very low?). You never see any sort of policing in Spanish harbours - people motor far too fast, and generally behave badly but what the hell, I would rather have than than the Gestapo.

 

[jimbaerselman]

[ QUOTE ]
You never see any sort of policing in Spanish harbours

[/ QUOTE ] That's the point. They have the powers, but they're only exercised after an event. Re-active policing, not proactive. Though when I was there (7 years ago, so maybe out of date) third party insurance was required and asked for.

 

[Anonymous]

Certainly marinas require yachts to have third party insurance but I have no way of knowing the legal position regarding trailer-launched boats or those at moorings.

Likewise, I have no knowledge of what happens after an accident or what the police powers are, though I wouldn't assume that any of the land police forces have jurisdiction at sea other than to apprehend felons and suspects. Customs seem to be more visible at sea.

 

[Andrew_Fanner]

How many thrid part issues are subsequently derived by greedy lawyers? I carry insurance for two reasons. If I stuff the boat I may get some recovery. If som greedy lawyer decides someone else has a possible claim I may be covered there, unless he persuades the ins co thta they don't get involved.