§ 8-727.1. Use of flashing red and yellow lights or signal devices; emergency vessels

   (a) "Public safety activity" defined. --

   (1) In this section, "public safety activity" includes:

      (i) Patrolling a marine parade, regatta, or special water celebration;

      (ii) Traffic control;

      (iii) Salvage;

      (iv) Fire fighting;

      (v) Medical assistance;

      (vi) Assisting a disabled vessel; and

      (vii) Search and rescue.

   (2) "Public safety activity" does not include routine towing.

(b) Use prohibited. -- Except as provided in subsection (c) of this section, an individual who is on a vessel may not display or operate a flashing, alternating red and yellow light or signal device.

(c) Display of signal; location; right-of-way. --

   (1) An individual who is on a vessel engaged in a government sanctioned public safety activity or a commercial vessel performing a public safety activity may display an alternately flashing red and yellow light signal.

   (2) The public safety identification light signal shall be located so that it does not interfere with the visibility of the vessel's navigation lights.

   (3) The public safety identification light signal may be used only as an identification light signal and does not convey any special privilege to the vessel displaying the light signal.

   (4) An individual on a vessel using the public safety identification light signal during public safety activities shall comply with the Inland Navigation Rules adopted by the United States Coast Guard and may not presume that the light or the activity gives the vessel precedence or right-of-way.

(d) Penalty for violation. -- A person who violates any provision of this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to a fine not exceeding $ 500.

HISTORY: 1991, ch. 275; 1993, ch. 216; 2007, ch. 5, § 7.