Florida’s waterways and Gulf/ocean access makes it an ideal place to engage in recreational activities like boating and jet skiing—but accidents on the water can be particularly dangerous. What happens if you’re injured in a jet ski accident? Who’s liable, and what can you do to recover compensation?

Florida jet ski regulations

Jet skis are considered “personal watercraft” (PWC) under Florida law. Anyone operating a jet ski must be at least 14, and if you plan to rent one, you must be at least 18. Operators under 21 must have a boating safety education ID card when operating a PWC with 10hp or higher.

Be aware of speed limits and no-wake zones when on a jet ski: these regulations are designed to prevent accidents. Florida law also prohibits operating a PWC under the influence, engaging in dangerous maneuvers or otherwise recklessly operating a jet ski.

Who’s responsible for a jet ski accident?

Liability for a jet ski accident depends on the individual circumstances of the case. Generally, there are three potential sources of liability. First, operators have a duty to pilot their watercraft safely and responsibly, following all applicable rules. If they fail in that duty and harm someone else

A rental company may also bear responsibility for an accident: they have a duty to provide appropriate instruction and safe equipment to customers. This includes regular maintenance and inspections of the PWC.

Finally, third party liability may apply. This happens when a third party, such as a jet ski manufacturer, causes an accident through their own negligence or recklessness. For example, if an accident is caused by a defective jet ski, the injured party could sue the manufacturer.

Because issues of liability can be complex, it’s important to seek out a personal injury attorney as soon as your medical condition is stable. For more information about jet ski accident liability, contact the knowledgeable Sarasota, FL personal injury lawyers at Goldman, Babboni, Fernandez, Murphy & Walsh right away.