What are more commonly known as Jet Skis, personal watercrafts are relatively new to the boating scene, but have quickly become one of the most dangerous watercrafts out there.

Why are PWCs so dangerous? PWCs are very fast; they have no brakes, and can only be steered while using the throttle. The design of the watercraft makes it very easy to fall off, and if other boaters around aren’t paying attention, you or your PWC could run into another vessel. The PWCs also travel at very high speeds and that makes it more likely for one to collide with another vessel or object in the water. PWCs are made to be small and maneuverable, but that can also make them very hard to see, and because they are so maneuverable, anticipating the operator’s intentions is very hard. Not knowing where they are turning makes it hard for other vessels to go around or avoid them.

Jet Ski Deaths, Injuries, and Accidents Per Year

The most common injury types are broken bones, lacerations, concussions, and sprains or strains. The primary accident types are collisions with other vessels, collisions with fixed objects, and falls. The contributing factors to these accidents are operator inexperience, excessive speed, improper lookout, navigation rules violation, and operator inattention.

PWC Deaths and Injuries Depending on Age

Hopefully PWC companies will make their products safer rather than increase the speed they can reach each year. However here are some tips that may help to prevent PWC injury.

If you have been injured or have lost a loved one due to someone else’s negligence, you may have the right to seek compensation for your losses. For experienced legal assistance, you can meet with our attorneys at our offices or we can come to your home if you are seriously injured.  We represent people throught Missouri including Kansas City, St. Louis, Columbia and all the places in between. Contact an attorney at the law firm of Gump & Faiella, 1-800-264-3455 for a free initial consultation fill out the  contact form on this page.

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