Great point Chip.
As a point of reference, here is a Coast Guard link for navigation and rules set forth. This link provides for comparisons between the International and Inland rules. Overall, the rules are consistent with the COLREGS, which set the International rules for avoiding collisions at sea. I believe they've been in place for some 40 years or so.
http://www.navcen.uscg.gov/?pageName=navRulesContent
Most of the rules are very straightforward, common sense. As most mariners know, safety and speed are relative to the conditions. There exist many inland bodies or water where speed limits and other such restrictions have been put into place. Many of these waterways still have far too many accidents. In most cases around the country, the accidents, and all too often, the fatalities resulting, occur for the same reasons, regardless of speed limits. But I don't want to debate speed limits, because I feel that everyone should be aware of the far more comprehensive boating safety rules contained in the above link.
Regardless of the written laws. Everyone should always be in the SACC.
Sober
Aware
Careful,
Courteous
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