How so? I wasn't going to pull out and get back in the end of the launch line again. I was asked three times to move. As Trooper mentioned above, I was "using the area it was intended for, launching my boat." Using the ramps and boat trailer parking lot to turn around at a dead end isn't what the area was built for. Trooper's post makes the most sense.
Here's my view on the deal.
1) You were told to pull into a parking spot out of the way
2) Instead you pulled up into the entrance road to the area on the wrong side of the street
Most reasonable people would assume you were not going to back up to the water from ther past the parking lot entrance and that you were preparing to leave the area
The guy who drove behind you wasn't paying close enough attention and was also at fault
You obviously could not see what you were doing if you were in a position like that and said you had someone guiding you - improper mirrors or you were not using them
The fact that the guy was in there with a car and no trailer is irrelevant - situation wouldn't have been any different if he did have a trailer
Before this get's going even farther. Lets all keep in mind that every situation is not the same. That being said Myself included can only guess as to who is at fault. I have added my 2 cents but am not a trained police officer or other type of person qualified to come to a collision after it has taken place and determine fault. Best thing about this is no one was hurt. If it was me i would have had a police report to cover my ***( even if they found me at fault). I have insurance for this type of unplanned situation.
Not completely sure how your state works, but I bet that would be considered a "no fault" accident. Had you backed into a person standing or walking or riding a bike behind you it would have been your fault. HOWEVER the car should not have been there. Combined fault. You are responsible for your backing, just as he is responsible for illegally entering the area.
All in all, let it go. Dont stir up a hornets nest. Your boat is fine. Count your blessings and be careful backing in the future.
If you have the other guys info, and your state offers an online way to file a report then go for it, but courts and police can see things much differant than you expect.
Review the link I posted. It's directly from the NY DMV. He's required to file...it's not an optional thing.
The bottom line to this whole story is cars are not supposed to be flying through high traffic boat ramps. I intend to write a letter and ask them why the rangers allow this to happen despite rules against it.
Love the handle.. Money Pit Boat..
Anyhow, I do have all his info. I still need to check the oil on the drive. Then I'll have to decide if I want to call him and see how he's doing or not.