(a) The operator of a vessel shall submit the casualty or accident report prescribed in § 173.57 to the reporting authority prescribed in § 173.59 when, as a result of an occurrence that involves the vessel or its equipment:

(1) A person dies;

(2) A person is injured and requires medical treatment beyond first aid;

(3) Damage to vessels and other property totals $2,000 or more or there is a complete loss of any vessel;

(4) A person disappears from the vessel under circumstances that indicate death or injury.

(b) A report required by this section must be made:

(1) Within 48 hours of the occurrence if a person dies within 24 hours of the occurrence;

(2) Within 48 hours of the occurrence if a person is injured and requires medical treatment beyond first aid, or disappears from a vessel; and

(3) Within 10 days of the occurrence or death if an earlier report is not required by this paragraph.

(c) When the operator of a vessel cannot submit the casualty or accident report required by paragraph (a) of this section, the owner shall submit the casualty or accident report.