Hogwash
You all are missing the point. I am not saying that a pwr boat operator speeding at night is not at fault. What I am saying is that every skipper who goes on the water has a duty and a resposibility to be clear headed and keep a sharpe lookout so that he / or she does not find themselves in a situation where there is a bad outcome. You are making my point, a boat that is becalmed must be more alert for pwr boats especially at night. And no skipper that either operates or allows somebody else to operate his boat while impaired is taking care of his crew. Folks step onboard my boat, it is my responsibility to bring them back safely, that means keeping a sharpe lookout, taking appropreate action and knowing when it isn't the time to go out.
I join the chorus of "calling you out."
I understand your basic concept, and do not disagree with it. Sure, we're all responsible for our actions, our boats and our guests.
The major point you're missing here is this: the powerboat was NOT operating with ANY responsibility at all and was the overtaking vessel.
Many have noted that the sailboat could NOT have ever gotten out of the way of the powerboat.
Bismarck's previous DUI is or should have been inadmissable in court, and has no bearing on the incident that particular night.
Perdock was seen in a bar right before the accident.
Regardless of blood alcohol levels, the sheriff in the speedboat was operating recklessly and hit what was essentially an object that was NOT moving. And, again, was NOT anchored.
Please, understand that your points, while generally well intentioned, are completely wrong and misapplied in this instance.
Think of it this way: if it was you down below, your friend at the helm and YOUR wife who got murdered, how'd you feel about the sheriff?