My name is Jen, and I am deeply concerned about the safety of individuals on our waterways, particularly that of my three-year-old son. My ex-partner, who cannot legally drive a car due to a homonymous hemianopia, a 50% visual field loss on the right side of both eyes, has been taking our young son on his new boat. Whilst he is unable to scan the environment properly due to his significant blind spots, he is still able to own and operate a large speed boat in the UK. This not only puts my son at great risk but also endangers the lives of everyone on the water.

Currently, there is no legal framework in the UK that prevents individuals who are unfit to hold a driving license due to visual impairments from operating motorised boats. This loophole could have disastrous consequences, and it is imperative for the safety of all citizens that we address this issue.

Research indicates that maritime safety should be held to similar standards as road safety. According to the Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB), a significant number of maritime incidents are caused by human error, many of which could be prevented if stricter regulations were in place. By closing this legal gap, we can significantly reduce the possibility of catastrophic accidents occurring on our waterways.

We propose the implementation of a law that requires individuals who are unable to secure a driving license due to impairments or disabilities that affect safe operation to also be disqualified from owning or operating any type of powered boat or watercraft in the UK. Similar to road safety standards, strict evaluations, including vision tests, should be mandated for all potential boat operators to ensure that they can safely navigate and react to hazards effectively.

This law not only serves to protect those on board the vessels but protects everyone enjoying recreational activities or making a living on the water. Waterways can be just as crowded and unpredictable as roads, and it is crucial that the operators of all vehicles, both on land and water, are equally qualified to manage those unpredictabilities.

Therefore, I urge policymakers, maritime authorities, and members of the legislature to take urgent action to protect individuals from the potential dangers posed by unfit boat operators. Let us not wait for a tragedy to prompt action.

Join me in calling for this critical change to ensure the safety of all who enjoy the beauty and opportunities provided by our rivers, lakes, and seas. Please sign this petition to support the implementation of laws that will keep our waterways safe for everyone.