How Do You Avoid Salvage Rights On Boat Towing?
Salvage rights have a long history in maritime law, and there are a number of fallacies about “salvage rights” when it comes to marine towing. One of these is the idea that someone can claim your boat’s ownership just by passing you a tow line. As stated in Title 40 of the U. S. Code of Federal Regulations, “Marine salvage operations generally fall into five categories: afloat salvage; offshore salvage; river and harbor clearance; cargo salvage; and rescue towing”–such as towing you in after you run out of gas. Read and sign a towing agreement that specifies the amount you will pay for the tow before you allow someone to put a towing line or bridle on your boat, or before you pass a line to them to receive a tow. One misconception is that if you pass the line to the towing vessel, you avoid salvage because the towing vessel “merely contributed to an ongoing effort.” Join an organization that offers towing as one of its benefits. The Boat Owners Association of the United States and Sea
