Operator #1 had borrowed the boat to use it for crabbing.  Vessel #2 was operated.  The operators know each other and were crab fishing in the same area.  

As vessel #2 was approaching vessel #1 operator2 said that there was a mechanical problem with the steering that caused it to malfunction and he could not steer away from vessel #1.  Since he could not steer the vessel his choice was to turn the ignition key off.  Operator2 admitted his vessel drove up onto vessel #1 but that it did not cause damage to his rproperty.  

According to the operator1 (vessel #1) when the other vessel hit his boat, he also was struck and then fell into the water.  He was treated at the hospital for a chest injury which he described as broken ribs and a punctured spleen.

The investigating officer Deputy determined (vessel #2) was at fault for a violation of the rules of the road by failing to give way.  He was issued a citation.
Anacortes                     