Validity of following an Imam separated by a road or river

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If there is a road or a river with flowing boats between the Imam and the follower, or if they are on two separate boats, the prevailing opinion among our associates and the view of Abu Hanifa is that following is invalid, as the road is not a place designated for prayer, thus resembling a separation that prevents connection. The correct view, held by Malik and Al-Shafi'i, is that it is valid because there is no textual basis or consensus prohibiting it, nor does it resemble such prohibitions, as it does not prevent seeing or hearing the voice, which are the key factors. Furthermore, if the prayer is a funeral, Friday, or Eid prayer, such separation does not affect validity, as these prayers are valid on a road, as evidenced by Anas praying behind the Imam when a road separated them for the funeral of Humayd ibn 'Abd al-Rahman.