Musings: Now, boat operators must take safety course
Brianna Lieneck, 11, who died in a boating accident in 2005. Credit: Lieneck family photo
As winter settles over New York, most boats are tucked away, but preparation for spring starts now. Under Brianna’s Law, fully implemented as of Jan. 1, all motorboat operators in New York State must complete a boating safety certification.
As a year-round boat captain, towing and assisting boaters in this area since 1985, I’ve seen firsthand the necessity of this law and the critical role education plays in preventing accidents on the water.
Brianna’s Law was enacted in memory of 11-year-old Brianna Lieneck, who died in a 2005 boating accident. This law, gradually rolled out over the past five years, will now ensure that even seasoned boaters take the time to refresh their knowledge, aligning with the goal of saving lives.
In 2020, New York reported 240 boating accidents, resulting in 31 fatalities and numerous injuries. Operator inexperience contributed to over 10% of these incidents. With more than 433,000 registered boats in New York and more than 7,000 documented vessels in Suffolk County, which utilize heavily trafficked waterways like Great South Bay, education provides boaters with critical skills from navigation to situational awareness.
By preparing now, boaters can more confidently pilot vessels, know they’re compliant with Brianna’s Law and be better equipped to handle the challenges on the open water.
Online options, such as the no-cost boating safety course from the BoatUS Foundation, which is approved by the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators, make certification accessible.
The certification required by Brianna’s Law is just the beginning of a boater’s education. The water is an ever-changing environment, and every trip provides a new opportunity to learn. As a captain, I emphasize to my team the importance of ongoing education — understanding tides, weather patterns, and the intricacies of navigation.
Gina Lieneck, Brianna’s mother, has tirelessly advocated that safety measures save lives. Her dedication to making boating safer through legislation and education is a testament to her resilience and love for her daughter.
As we plan for spring, let’s honor Brianna’s memory by committing to safer boating. Take the course, educate yourself and encourage others to do the same. Because on the water, knowledge isn’t power, it’s lifesaving.
— Jim Reynolds, Bay Shore
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