Jet skis are a fun alternative to boats and other watercraft because riders get to experience the thrills of a speedboat at a fraction of the cost. They are also deceptively simple to operate. As such, many young riders hop on a jet ski with little or no training and end up injuring themselves or others. In fact, some statistics suggest that jet ski mishaps and accidents cause more injuries than boating accidents.
Jet ski accidents can be particularly severe if the rider is thrown from the watercraft at a high speed after colliding with another vessel or a stationary object. Broken bones, internal injuries, and head, neck, and spine injuries are all highly possible following a jet ski accident.
The good news is that, if your accident was due to another’s negligence, compensation may be available to help you pay for necessary medical treatment, lost wages and other financial losses resulting therefrom. Speaking with an experienced Texas Personal Injury Lawyer is highly recommended, as he or she can advise you of your rights and help represent your legal interests to the fullest extent.
Who is at Fault in a Jet Ski Accident?
Much like a motor vehicle or motorcycle accident, a jet ski accident may have multiple “at-fault” parties, including the jet ski rider him/herself. The injured victim who chooses to bring a lawsuit seeking compensation for his or her injuries typically must identify and bring suit against all parties who contributed to the accident. At-fault parties might include the following:
The jet ski rider:
If he or she was operating the jet ski in a careless or reckless fashion. Driving too fast or attempting abrupt maneuvers are all actions that may contribute to an accident. Driving a jet ski while under the influence of alcohol or drugs can also contribute to an accident by reducing the rider’s attention and impairing his or her judgment.
Another boater or rider:
May also be at fault if such person also engaged in reckless or careless behavior.
The jet ski’s manufacturer or a parts manufacturer:
If the jet ski was equipped with a faulty part or constructed in such a way that it would be unsafe for a person to operate the watercraft under normal conditions.
A mechanic:
That serviced the jet ski may also be responsible if he or she did not notice or repair an obvious problem or repaired a defective part in a negligent or careless manner.
What To Do After a Jet Ski Accident
In order to preserve your legal rights, it is important that you take prompt action following a jet ski accident. Of course, you should seek immediate medical attention for your injuries. Even if you do not believe you have been seriously injured, it is important that you are evaluated promptly by a medical professional to ensure you have not suffered any internal injuries or that any injuries you did suffer do not become worse. If possible, you should then:
- Obtain the names, numbers, and statements (if possible) of witnesses who observed the crash, as they might be necessary to help prove someone else was responsible for causing the crash;
- Write down your own recollection of how the crash happened so that you do not later forget. If possible, take pictures of the crash scene, the vessels involved, and any injuries you suffered. This can help “recreate” the scene of the accident for a judge or jury who is attempting to determine fault.
Contact Zinda Law Group Now
Contact a jet ski accident attorney right away. You only have a limited time to file a lawsuit for compensation. At Zinda Law Group, we will conduct a thorough investigation into your claim and aggressively pursue your claim for compensation on your behalf. Contact us today at (800) 863-5312 to learn more about how we can make a difference for you.
