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There is nothing quite like taking to the water on the back of a jet ski. Yet, as fun as these experiences are, they can also be rather dangerous. When you head out onto the waterfront to enjoy a day under the sun, you may not think twice about an accident. When it happens, one of the first questions you have to answer is about fault.
At Goldstein & Goldstein, LLP, our personal injury lawyers are available to provide a complimentary consultation. Before you settle with the insurance company, let us answer your questions.
Why Jet Ski Accidents Are Increasing in New Jersey
Warmer months mean more people are taking to the water to cool off. And, with personal watercraft (PWCs) like jet skis and Wave Runners becoming so accessible, it is no wonder that more people are taking to the water to explore the waves. The use of these types of devices has increased along the Jersey Shore as well as in lakes and rivers in the surrounding area.
Why are there so many jet skis out there?
- Summer tourism – People are in town for the fun that the beach creates, and that means there is a real need to head out into the water on a hot summer day.
- Rental availability has grown – Many more opportunities are present along the shorelines that encourage the rental and use of these watercraft without significant training.
- Inexperienced users – Not everyone who gets behind the wheel of these devices will drive safely. Younger and newer drivers face an increased risk of being involved in an accident.
Another factor to think about is the laws. Although some regulations may be forthcoming, the current lack of enforcement and safety training is a concern. Operators do not need to maintain any type of specialized operator’s license to get into the water. This increases the risk of an inexperienced driver causing an accident.
Common Causes of Jet Ski Accidents
It is not uncommon for jet ski riders to fall off and suffer serious injuries. Yet, many rental companies and third parties paint these types of experiences as safe and easy to control. Some of the most common reasons that jet ski accidents like this happen include:
- Inexperienced and unlicensed operators.
- Collisions with boats, swimming, docks, and other PWC.
- Speeding and reckless maneuvers while operating the PWC.
- Operating the jet ski under the influence of alcohol or drugs, both of which are prohibited.
- Rental company negligence, such as not providing training and instruction, or loaning you faulty equipment that causes your accident and injuries.
- Mechanical failure or improper maintenance can also be factors contributing to accidents.
If you are in a jet ski accident in New Jersey, we strongly recommend reaching out to our legal team if you believe someone else may be responsible for your injuries. Our jet ski injury lawyer in NJ is available to investigate your case to determine what happened. That helps us pinpoint who is at fault.
Types of Injuries from Jet Ski Accidents
Jet ski accidents in NJ can cause life-threatening injuries very easily. Your boating and jet ski injury claims in NJ need to document exactly what your injuries are, and when possible, you should seek medical care right away. Some of the most common serious injuries we see in a jet ski rental accident include:
- Head trauma and concussions
- Spinal cord injuries and neck injuries
- Broken bones and neck injuries
- Severe lacerations from propellers
- Drowning or near-drowning incidents
In these situations, we examine what happened, as well as the severity of your injuries. You can expect our jet ski crash attorney on the Jersey Shore to be ready to seek fair compensation for your losses.
Determining Liability After a Jet Ski Accident
Our PWC accident liability attorney in New Jersey is ready to work for you. To do that, we need to determine who’s liable in a jet ski crash. Liability may include:
- The owner and operator of the vehicle, especially if the driver is careless or intoxicated.
- The rental company’s responsibility is applicable if the company fails to maintain equipment or provide proper training.
- Product liability occurs in situations where the jet ski is manufactured due to a defect in its construction.
- Municipal or marina negligence may also play a role, especially if unsafe conditions contributed to the incident.
- Who’s liable in a jet ski crash is critical to determine. From this data, we can then build your case for you, going after those who contributed.
What Victims Should Do After a Jet Ski Injury
What you do after a jet ski accident in New Jersey can be critical to protecting your right to compensation. As jet ski injury lawyers in NJ, there are several things we recommend:
- Seek immediate medical attention after your accident.
- Report the accident to the local marine and law enforcement
- Document the incident as well as you can through photos, videos, and debris
- Avoid speaking to the insurance company just yet. Instead, wait until you speak to an attorney.
- Contact a personal injury attorney in New Jersey right away. Your attorney, who has watercraft experience, can help you navigate your legal options in holding those who hurt you accountable.
Injured in a Jet Ski Accident in New Jersey?
Don’t wait to get the legal support you deserve. At Goldstein & Goldstein, LLP, we’ll listen to your story, investigate the details, and fight to get you maximum compensation. Your consultation is free – and you pay nothing unless we win. Call us today to get started.
FAQs About Jet Ski Accidents in New Jersey
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What is the leading cause of jet ski accidents in New Jersey?
The most common cause of jet ski accidents is operator error. This includes behaviors such as speeding, inexperience, lack of attention, or failure to follow water safety rules. Alcohol use and reckless driving can also contribute to serious personal watercraft collisions.
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What type of compensation can I receive after a jet ski accident?
If you are injured in a jet ski accident due to someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost income, property damage, and pain and suffering. In some cases, punitive damages may also be awarded if the at-fault party acted with extreme recklessness.
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Who can be held liable in a jet ski accident case?
Liability can fall on several parties, including the jet ski operator, the rental company, the manufacturer (in case of a mechanical defect), or even a boat operator if another vessel was involved. A personal injury attorney can investigate the circumstances of your accident and identify all potentially liable parties.
Our Newark Personal Injury Lawyers at Goldstein & Goldstein, LLP Are Here to Help
If you have been injured in an accident, contact our Newark personal injury lawyers at Goldstein & Goldstein, LLP. Call 973-675-8277 or complete our online form for a free consultation. Located in East Orange, New Jersey, we serve clients in the surrounding areas.
