East Bay waterways offer some of the best views and recreation in Northern California. Whether you’re out boating with friends, paddleboarding near Alameda, or jet skiing in San Pablo Bay, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the water. But it’s easy to forget how dangerous these waters can be. Serious accidents happen every year, often because someone wasn’t paying attention or didn’t follow the rules.
We want you to enjoy the water and avoid the risks. Here’s what you need to know to stay safe and what to do if something goes wrong.
Common Hazards on East Bay Waterways
The San Francisco Bay and surrounding waterways can be unpredictable, especially in busy parts of the East Bay. Here are some of the most common hazards we see:
- Strong tidal currents in areas like the Carquinez Strait can push small vessels off course.
- Low visibility near the Port of Oakland and in early morning fog can make it hard to see other boats or kayakers.
- Commercial traffic, including large container ships and ferries, creates dangerous wakes and has limited maneuverability.
- Floating debris and submerged hazards are common near docks and bridges.
- Inexperienced operators may not know how to react quickly or share the water safely.
Collisions between jet skis and boats, or powerboats and kayaks, happen more often than people realize. Alcohol and distraction also play a significant role. Even a moment of carelessness can lead to serious injury.
Local Boating Laws and Safety Requirements
Before you hit the water, it’s essential to understand what’s required under California law. The East Bay has additional enforcement in areas like Lake Chabot and along the shoreline between Emeryville and Richmond.
A few key requirements:
- California Boater Card: As of January 1, 2025, anyone operating a motorized vessel must carry a valid California Boater Card, regardless of age. To get one, you must complete a state-approved safety course and pass a test.
- Life jackets: Children under 13 must wear a life jacket at all times on a moving vessel. Adults should wear them too — most drownings involve people who weren’t wearing one.
- Boating under the influence (BUI): This is a criminal offense in California. The legal limit for those operating recreational vessels is 0.08% BAC, the same as it is for driving.
- Speed rules: You must maintain a safe speed and stay at least 100 feet from swimmers and other boats in no-wake zones.
Local agencies like the East Bay Regional Park District Police and the California State Parks Division of Boating and Waterways regularly patrol high-traffic areas. If you’re unsure about the rules, check signage at the marina or ask a dock official.
What to Do After a Boating Accident
If you’re involved in an accident on the water, stay calm and act quickly. Your safety and the safety of others come first.
Here’s what you should do:
- Check for injuries and call for help. If someone needs medical attention, dial 911 or use marine radio.
- Alert the authorities. Depending on your location, this might be the Coast Guard, local police, or park patrol.
- Exchange information with other involved parties, just like you would after a car crash.
- Document the scene. Take photos of the damage, water conditions, and any injuries.
- File an accident report. California law requires you to report the incident to the Division of Boating and Waterways within 48 hours if someone is hurt or dies and within 10 days if there is property damage of more than $500.
Even if things seem minor, it’s a good idea to talk to a lawyer before you speak with insurers.
How We Can Help You Recover After a Waterway Accident
Accidents on the water can result in serious injuries — broken bones, brain trauma, back injuries, and even drowning. When someone else’s carelessness causes those injuries, they should be held accountable.
At Casper, Meadows, Schwartz & Cook, we’ve helped many East Bay families after boating and waterway accidents. We know how these incidents happen, and we know how to hold the right people responsible. Our team can:
- Investigate what happened and gather evidence
- Identify responsible parties, including boat owners, rental companies, or manufacturers
- Deal with insurance companies on your behalf
- Seek compensation for medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering
We’re based here in the Bay Area, so we know the local waterways and how to build a strong case.
Contact Our Experienced East Bay, Alameda County, Contra Costa County Waterway Accident Attorneys
There’s no better way to enjoy the East Bay than by spending a day on the water. But accidents can happen in an instant. Whether you’re hurt by a careless boater or injured because of unsafe conditions, you don’t have to face the consequences alone.
Contact Casper, Meadows, Schwartz & Cook if you’ve been injured in a waterway accident. We’ll help you understand your rights and work to get the compensation you deserve.