§ 20.1-13-13 — Owner's civil liability

The owner of a vessel is liable for any injury or damage occasioned by the negligent
operation of such vessel, whether such negligence consists of a violation of state statutes, or
neglecting to observe such ordinary care and such operation as the rules of the common law
require. The owner is not liable, however, unless such vessel is being used with the owner's

express or implied consent. It must be presumed that such vessel is being operated with the
knowledge and consent of the owner, if at the time of the injury or damage it is under the control
of the owner's spouse, father, mother, brother, sister, son, daughter, or other immediate member
of the owner's family. Nothing herein relieves any other person from any liability that person
would otherwise have, and nothing contained herein authorizes or permits any recovery in
excess of injury or damage actually incurred.