Not many jet ski riders are aware, but rearview mirrors on a jet ski serve a specific legal purpose, particularly in tow sports like tubing, wakeboarding, and skiing.
Tow sports, such as pulling a tube or wakeboarding, can be done on personal watercraft like a jet ski.
When engaging in tow sports, certain US states mandate having a spotter. A spotter is a person who sits facing backward on the jet ski to monitor the person being towed. Even if a jet ski includes mirrors for rearward visibility, many states still require a spotter.
This rule can restrict how many people you can tow behind a jet ski. Exceeding the seating capacity can result in a fine.
Jet Ski Seating Capacity
The typical jet ski accommodates three people, while two-seater models are also common.
In states requiring a spotter, one person must drive while another acts as the spotter. With a 2-seater jet ski, you cannot tow anyone. With a 3-seater, you are limited to towing a single person.
If mirrors are the only requirement for towing in your state, you could tow up to two people on a tube.
Exceeding these limits may result in fines or other penalties enforced by water patrol.
These regulations aim to ensure there is sufficient space on the jet ski to safely return everyone to shore in an emergency. While someone might sit on the tube in an emergency, the rules assume the tube is unavailable, so enough seating must exist on the jet ski.
Are Rearview Mirrors Needed on Jet Skis?
In some states, towing behind a personal watercraft is permitted with mirrors alone, regardless of seating capacity.
If you do not have mirrors, you must use a spotter, which significantly limits the number of people you can tow.
Many jet skis come equipped with mirrors from the factory, but they are often basic. Models without factory-installed mirrors, such as the Sea-Doo Spark, allow owners to purchase and install them. Using wide-angle mirrors is critical for proper visibility on a personal watercraft.
Kawasaki offers a jet ski model with a rearview camera to monitor individuals being towed. However, since this technology is relatively new, its acceptance by water patrol can vary. Always ensure your setup complies with local regulations.
Kawasaki offers a model with a rearview camera for monitoring people being towed. However, this is relatively new, and its acceptance by water patrol may vary. It’s also crucial to comply with local regulations.
Towing Safety
For safe tow sports with a jet ski, you need the right equipment.
A skier-down flag is vital. Raise this flag when the person being towed falls off to warn nearby boaters to slow down. Some states require this safety measure.
Life jackets designed for tow sports and jet ski use are essential for all riders.
Additionally, a shock tube is necessary to prevent the tow rope from being sucked into the jet ski’s intake.
