Free Consultation. No Fees Until You Collect. Call 24 Hours a Day 1-800-4-RIGHTS
Minnesota Offices

Serving all of Minnesota
Call 1-800-4-RIGHTS

If you’re recovering, we’ll come to you. Or we’ll set up a meeting at one of our convenient office locations:

See all results for ‘
Enter 3 or more characters for full site search

Water Safety Guidelines in Minnesota: What You Need to Know

 

Even with the days getting colder and shorter, there's still time to be out on the water in Minnesota. However, while the 2019 boating season did see a drop in fatalities from last year, non-fatal boating accidents were up. As the season comes to a close, it's important to remember to stay safe and know water safety rules to ensure the safety of those around you.

Following Sophia's Law

Remember that, as of May 1, 2018, Sophia's Law is in effect in the state. Meaning all recreational motorboats, including sailboats with motors, that have enclosed compartments must have functioning marine CO2 detection stickers. Watercraft that fit into this distinction should also display three CO2 poisoning warning stickers.

 

Life Jacket Requirements

Minnesota has specific life jacket requirements for those on any water vessel, including:

  • Children under 10 years of age required to wear U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets while a boat is underway (e.g., not securely fastened to a mooring or dock). There are a few exceptions to the law, including:
    • Children who are below the top deck or in an enclosed cabin
    • Children on passenger vessels operated by a licensed captain
    • Children on a boat anchored to allow for diving and swimming
    • Children who are under six months or 16lbs and are too small for a life jacket
  • A readily accessible and wearable life jacket is necessary for each person on board a boat (including canoes, kayaks, paddleboards, etc.)
  • A Type IV throwable is required on boats 16 feet or longer (except canoes or kayaks) and should be immediately available
  • Personal watercraft operators and passengers must each wear a life jacket
 

Dock Regulations

While docks and platforms allow for easier access to Minnesota's lakes and rivers, they do need to comply with state regulations. The current laws have been in effect for many years. However, many people may not be aware of their requirements. The requirements aim to balance reasonable access with habitat protection and general safety.

Docks may not be more than 8 feet wide and cannot be combined with other similar structures to create a wider platform. A single platform that is temporary can measure up to 120 square feet. They must not be a hazard to navigation, health, or safety, and must allow water to flow freely. A dock cannot close off part of a lake or river to other users. Docks also are required to comply with any local ordinances.

You can find more information about Minnesota state's dock requirements here.

Playing it Safe on the Water

While life jackets help keep everyone on a watercraft safe, other extra precautions can be taken around any body of water. The Red Cross recommends:

  • Ensure everyone in the family learns to swim well, including adults
  • Always swim with a buddy and only in designated swimming areas
  • Actively supervise children when they are in the water
  • Enroll in first aid and CPR/AED courses to be ready to respond to emergencies
  • Have appropriate equipment on hand, such as a throwing device, life jackets, a cell phone, and first aid kit
  • Before boating, swimming or heading to the beach, establish ground rules for safe conduct
  • Whether it's a boat or a swimming pool, make sure to have a life jacket close at hand
  • Avoid alcohol use when swimming and boating

If you're looking to learn the proper protocols and processes for boating safety, Minnesota state offers boat and water safety courses, both online and in class.

Practicing sound water safety protocol around waterways becomes even more critical when temperatures drop. As the weather begins to cool, ensure you're aware of cold water dangers. Over 30% of boating fatalities in the state do happen in cold water (with a victim not wearing a life jacket). Deaths can occur within 30 minutes of immersion in cold water, and drowning can occur within two to three minutes if you're not wearing a life jacket. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has an outline of how to stay safe in cold waters and what to do should your boat capsize.

While the season is almost over, knowing proper swimming and boating safety all year round will help keep you and your family safe out on the water.

If you, a family member, or anyone close to you have been involved in an accident resulting in personal injury in Minnesota, we can help. From boating mishaps to drunk driving accidents, the lawyers of SiebenCarey have represented thousands of families for over 60 years. We're Minnesota's original "Know Your Rights" attorneys that handle personal injury in Minnesota and throughout the state. Click here for more information.

Client Reviews

out of 200 reviews
Eric Petoletti

Even though I was states away and could only talk on the phone, they listened and did everything that they could to win my case. I felt like I was a part of the family.

Carly R.

My boyfriend was hit by a car and while all the attorneys he talked to said he didn't have much chance of a case, SiebenCarey took him on and gave him a fighting chance. He's still recovering, but SiebenCarey is making it a lot easier.

Renee Goneau

SiebenCarey is a great personal injury law firm that really cares about their clients.  Highly recommend!

Jenna L. at Insider Pages

I have had nothing but great service with these guys. They are very knowledgable on a wide variety of subjects and topic. They will help you with any case you need!

Jazz Smith

SiebenCarey is a professional and dedicated law organization that help accident victim.

Daniel Ball

Really good professionals, they solved my issues in no time using the most impressive and advanced approach. Really good, highly recommended.

St. Paul Local 12

Thanks for everything, your experience paid off BIG!!!

Morgan Petoletti

My husband had an amazing experience with this firm. They listened and took the time to understand our case.

Jesse Bukal

In need of a personal injury attorney? Well you're if you're reading this you're in the right place. You'd be hard pressed to find more competent attorneys than the ones here at SiebenCarey.

They took my case to trial and an amazing job presenting the facts and fighting for my best interests! Three years ago I was unsure of what my future would bring; now that it's over I can rest a bit easier. With SiebenCarey as my counsel, I believe I had the absolute BEST representation a person could've asked for. I knew that I wanted the absolute best representation when searching for an attorney to handle my case and I most definitely received it.

If you need a personal injury attorney, look no further. Can't recommend highly enough.

Sean Beggs

I was referred to SiebenCarey by a friend after I was involved in a bicycle accident. Jim Carey represented me and throughout the process I was never anxious about the case because he and his team were in constant communication. I knew where we stood and the course of action we were taking which gave me peace of mind throughout my recovery. Everyone I encountered at SiebenCarey from the first phone call until the final resolution treated my case as if it were top priority and they did so respectfully, professionally, and achieved results beyond my expectations. It was a pleasurable experience during a difficult time.

Award Winning Know Your Rights Attorneys

Certified Civil Trial Law Specialists

8 Certified Civil Trial Law Specialists, Minnesota Bar Association
3 Board Certified Trial Advocates, National Board of Trial Advocacy.

2022 Super Lawyers

Also awarded in:
2021, 2020, 2019, 2018, 2017, 2016, 2015, 2014, 2013, 2012, 2011, 2010, 2009, 2008

2022 Best Lawyers in America©

Also awarded in:
2021, 2020, 2019, 2018, 2017, 2016, 2015, 2014, 2013, 2012, 2011, 2010, 2009, 2008.

2022 U.S. News Best Law Firms

Also awarded in:
2021, 2020, 2019, 2018, 2017, 2016, 2015, 2014, 2013, 2012, 2011, 2010

Attorneys of the Year

5 of our attorneys have been recognized as Attorneys of the Year

FREE DOWNLOAD

50%

To help us recommend the best resources for you, please indicate the relevant accident type below:

Step 1 of 2: Case

Please select an answer before proceeding

Please enter your email address below so we can send your download link right away.

Step 2 of 2: Download

Please enter your valid email address so we can send your download link and special printing instructions.

Secure form. Your information is confidential with us.

FREE ILLUSTRATED GUIDE

50%

To help us customize our resources for you, please indicate the relevant accident type below:

Step 1 of 2: Accident Type

Please select an answer before proceeding

Please enter your email address below so we can send your download link right away.

Step 2 of 2: Download

Please enter your valid email address so we can send your download link and special printing instructions.

Secure form. Your information is confidential with us.

FREE DOWNLOAD!

50%
The Minnesota No-Fault Fact Sheet is a valuable resource for all Minnesotans

Have you been in a recent accident, if so, which type?

Please select an answer before proceeding

Please enter your email address below so we can send your download link right away.

Please enter your valid email address so we can send your download link and special printing instructions.

Secure form. Your information is confidential with us.

Had an Accident or Injury?
WE CAN HELP!

  • No risk or obligation. We only collect fees if you win.
  • Free review of your options and potential for success.
  • Trusted by more than 65,000 people just like you since 1952.

Call us 24/7 at 1-800-4-RIGHTS(744487)

Or complete the form

Secure form. Your information is confidential with us.
Please enter the required information above

Would you recommend us?

We are interested in hearing about your experience with SiebenCarey Personal Injury Law.

Would you mind leaving a review? If so, please take a moment to tell us about your experience and also mention the attorney you worked with. Your feedback helps us to improve our services to you and all clients.

Step 1 of 2:

Contact Us

We strive to provide top quality legal and customer service. We're sorry that we didn't meet our own expectations for you - How can we do better?

Please enter the required information above