CASE 19        

Rule 14(b), Avoiding Contact
Rule 62.1(b), Redress

An interpretation of the term 'damage'.

Question
Is there a special meaning of 'damage' in the racing rules?

Answer
No. It is not possible to define ‘damage’ comprehensively, but one current English dictionary says ‘harm or injury impairing the value or usefulness of something, or the health or normal function of a person.’
This definition suggests questions to consider.
Examples are:
1. Was the current market value of any part of the boat, or of the boat as a whole, diminished?
2. Was any item of the boat or her equipment made less functional?

RYA 1968/2