If you or someone you love suffered a personal watercraft injury, the experienced Tampa jet ski accident attorneys at Carlson Meissner & Hayslett could help you:

  • Identify the liable parties
  • Determine the cause of the accident
  • Pursue a solid legal strategy to get you the financial compensation you deserve

Jet Skis are a Serious Safety Risk on Florida Waterways

Jet skis are smaller than boats which usually means that injuries from these accidents can be more severe. There have been accidents where the victims have suffered significant damage to their limbs, spinal cord, and head. Whether you have a Sea-Doo, Kawasaki, Yamaha, or any other jet ski, an accident can stem from the following reasons:

  • Unsafe conditions
  • Poor instruction
  • Defective machinery
  • Poor weather conditions
  • Poorly maintained equipment
  • Lack of supervision
  • Overcrowding
  • Excessive speed
  • Lack of proper training
  • Hazardous water conditions

Jet skis are aptly called motorcycles of the water. It’s your legal right to file for compensation if your injuries result from someone else’s negligence.

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Liability for Florida Jet Ski Accidents

Nothing stops a rider from making a wrong decision, even if the jet ski is appropriately maintained and manufactured. Different types of operating mistakes can result in severe and fatal accidents. This is from operating a jet ski with inadequate experience and training to operating it under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

If a rider causes a jet ski accident, you can hold the rider legally liable for damages. However, this doesn’t mean the rider is the only responsible party. For instance, private owners and rental companies that allow other people to use their jet skis can also be held liable for “negligent entrustment.”

An experienced jet ski accident attorney will evaluate the unique circumstances surrounding your accident and identify all potential sources of financial recovery to maximize your claim.

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Obtaining Compensation for Your Jet Ski Accident

To pursue compensation, you must show that the jet ski accident results from someone else’s negligence. This means you need to prove the following four elements:

  • Duty: You will need to verify that the liable party had a duty to exercise care and protect you from harm
  • Breach: You will need to show that the defendant breached this duty of care
  • Causation: You will also have to prove that the accident was the result of the breach of duty of care
  • Damages: The final element is to show that you suffered damages due to the responsible party’s negligent conduct

Comparative Negligence Rule in Florida

In Florida, every person sharing fault for an accident can be held liable to pay for the damages in proportion to their fault. If you were partially at fault for the jet ski accident, your compensation would be reduced by the percentage share of fault; in fact, the insurance company will play up your responsibility to minimize their payout.

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Legal Help is Here from Dedicated Jet Ski Accident Attorneys in Florida

Our qualified and resourceful jet ski accident attorneys in Tampa have helped numerous accident victims obtain the compensation and justice they deserve. You can rely on our years of experience in maritime law, proven track record of favorable outcomes, and dedication to protecting the rights of injured victims.

Schedule your free and confidential consultation with us today. Call 813-223-2030 or write to us online.

Free Case Evaluation Contact us today to learn how we can help you navigate your legal concerns.

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