If you were injured in a jet ski or other watercraft accident, you need to speak to an experienced Carlsbad watercraft accident attorney about your legal rights and options. An experienced Carlsbad personal injury lawyer from The Miller & Steele Law Firm can handle your legal claim for you so that you can focus on your recovery. Call us today to take advantage of a free case review.
Common Types of Watercraft Involved in Accidents
There’s no shortage of watercraft used in Carlsbad and the surrounding areas. Some of the most common types of watercraft involved in accidents include:
- Jet skis
- WaveRunners
- Sea-Doos
- Boats pulling water skiers
- Wakeboards
- Fishing boats
- Recreational boats
Whether the negligent operator of the watercraft harmed a passenger, someone on another vessel, or a swimmer, the injured party may have a right to seek compensation from them for their injuries.
Common Causes of Watercraft Accidents
Operator negligence or recklessness is the main cause of watercraft accidents. Contributing factors include:
- Speeding
- Drinking while boating
- Distractions
- Inexperience
- Not following posted warning signs prohibiting certain types of watercraft or warning boaters of the presence of swimmers
- Operating the boat in wake zones
Product defects or lack of maintenance can also contribute to these accidents.
Common Watercraft Accident Injuries
The speed, lack of safety equipment, and proximity to the water make many watercraft accidents fatal or serious injuries. When a victim survives a serious personal watercraft accident, they often suffer permanent disabilities.
Some of the most common injuries people suffer in watercraft accidents include:
- Drowning injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Oxygen deprivation injuries
- Head injuries
- Nerve damage
- Carbon monoxide poisoning
- Broken bones
- Facial lacerations
- Burns
- Hypothermia
Who Is Responsible for Watercraft Accidents?
Various parties can be responsible for watercraft accidents, including the following:
- Operators: Jet ski operators may travel at speeds of more than 60 mph, causing them to lose stability or even flip over. Inexperienced drivers may not know how to avoid hazards in the water without a braking mechanism. When the operator’s negligence caused the accident, you can pursue them for compensation, whether you were a passenger or on another vessel.
- Boat owners: Boat owners could be held responsible for accidents caused by mechanical issues in the boat or failing to keep proper safety equipment on hand.
- Watercraft rental companies: Rental companies can be held responsible when they rent watercraft that have not been properly maintained or to unsafe drivers.
- Watercraft manufacturers: Watercraft or parts manufacturers may be held liable for accidents caused by defective boats or parts.
What Compensation Can I Recover After a Personal Watercraft Accident?
Watercraft accidents can have a devastating impact on victims and their families. Accident victims may be able to seek compensation for their damages, which may consist of:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Reduced earning capacity
- Permanent disabilities or impairment
- Property damage
- Physical pain and suffering
- Emotional trauma
- Loss of enjoyment of life
An experienced Carlsbad accident attorney can identify the compensation you may be entitled to.
Contact a Carlsbad Watercraft Accident Lawyer for Legal Advice
If someone else’s negligence has caused your personal watercraft accident, call The Miller & Steele Law Firm at (760) 840-5221 or contact us online. We provide free case reviews to potential clients to explain their legal rights and options for pursuing compensation.