From my investigation, and supporting facts, it appears V2 was the stand-on vessel and altered her course to port with a vessel on her own port side, preventing the give-way vessel (V1) from reacting in ample time to take appropriate action alone to avoid the collision and continued its path of travel. Based on the damage, it appears that this caused the bow of V1, operated by V1 Operator, to impact the port side gunwale above the rub rail near the bow of V2, operated by V2 Operator, causing V1 to ramp up the hood of V2. The starboard side hull of V1 then impacted the steering column and handlebars of V2 before striking V2 Operator, impacting her left leg and side of her head, and continuing down the port side of V2. Fiberglass damage and striations to the port side gunwale above the rub rail near the bow of V2 indicates the point of impact from V1. Minor fiberglass damage to the port side of the hood, mirror and steering column indicates where V2 absorbed most of the impact from V1. Fiberglass damage and striations on the port side gunnel near the gas cap indicates the path of travel V1 took across V2 as it resettled in the water.
The damage to V1 was very minimal and contained to the starboard side hull near the bow eye and consisted of minor paint scuffs/paint transfer. Damage estimates for V1 is approximately $200. Damage estimates for V2 is approximately $3000.
Colorado River
Laughlin                      