Florida Statute 327.301 outlines when a boating accident must be reported to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). You don’t need to report every minor bump, but serious incidents trigger mandatory reporting. Here’s a breakdown:

• Immediate Verbal Report: If the accident involves injury, death, or a missing person, notify authorities (FWC, local law enforcement, or Coast Guard) as soon as possible, ideally right at the scene.
• Written Report Deadlines:
  
  • Within 48 Hours: Required if someone dies within 24 hours of the accident, if a person disappears under circumstances indicating death or injury, or if there’s an injury requiring medical treatment beyond first aid.
  • Within 10 Days: For accidents where the total property damage exceeds $2,000 (including to vessels or other property), but no injury or death occurred.

Reports can be submitted online via the FWC website, by mail, or in person. Include details like the date, time, location, vessels involved, and a description of the incident. Operators of all involved vessels must file unless they’re physically unable.