RedactedNarrative: Vessel #1 was a drift, in neutral, in the water.  Vessel #2 was on plane heading in the direction of Vessel #1.  Vessel #2’s bow collided into Vessel #1’s port side,  causing a substantial amount of damage to both vessels. Operator of Vessel  #2 and two of it's occupants were injured.  After impact, both vessels were driven back to shore and the occupants of Vessel #2 were transported to the hospital for treatment for their injuries. Operator of Vessel #2 stated he consumed alcohol earlier in the day, but field sobriety tasks did not show he was impaired. Both vessels were able to be driven back to shore. Operator of Vessel #2 was found to be in violation of USCG Navigation Rules 5, 6, and 16. Operator of Vessel #1 was found to be in violation of USCG Navigation Rule 17.
  
  
  Investigation revealed the following, at dusk, Vessel #2 was traveling west on plane from the east side of the lake. Vessel #1 was a drift, with the engine running, near the center of the lake facing south. The occupants were eating dinner when they heard the sound of a boat motor drawing close to them. As their attention drew to the approaching vessel, the operator of the stand on Vessel #1, observed the giveway Vessel #2 approaching them at a high rate of speed operating with no lights and struck his vessel. Operator 2 did not observe Vessel #1 in front of him and failed to alter his course to avoid collision. The penetrating blow caused a large hole on the port side of Vessel #1 above the water line (see attached photo marked P3). As a result of the impact, the two occupants on Vessel #2 were knocked unconscious and sustained injuries. The operator of Vessel #2 sustained injuries to his face from impacting the starboard side windshield, which was evident with the fresh blood found on the windshield, consistent with his injuries. Both parties agreed to meet back at the Lake Minneola Boat Ramp. Vessel #2 started heading east away from the dock. Vessel #1 had to drive over to Vessel 2 and get the operator's attention to get him to head back to the dock. Both vessels tied up to the dock upon arrival. One of the occupants from Vessel #1 called for EMS. Two occupants from Vessel #2 were transported to ORMC. Operator 2 admitted to drinking alcoholic beverages earlier in the day, but field sobriety tasks did not indicate he was legally impaired.
  