Tighe Law | Professional Association

Get Experienced Legal Advice About Your Personal Injury Claim. Free Consultation 561-363-3947

Tighe Law | Professional Association

To get experienced legal advice about your personal injury claim. Call​ 561-363-3947

Tighe Law | Professional Association
Tighe Law

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Free Consultation Call Today 561-363-3947

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What Is The Leading Cause Of PWC Accidents?

The leading cause of PWC accidents is operator inexperience and reckless behavior. Personal watercraft (PWC), such as Jet Skis and WaveRunners, provide fast and thrilling rides, but they require skill and attention to operate safely. Beyond operator inexperience, factors such as alcohol use, mechanical failures and poor weather conditions also contribute to PWC accidents. When accidents occur, consulting an attorney can help determine liability and seek compensation for damages.

Tighe Law, is a trusted law firm with over 20 years of experience handling personal injury and maritime-related cases in South Florida. Attorney Patrick Tighe is well-known in the South Florida legal community for the quality of his work. Recognized for five consecutive years on the Super Lawyers list, attorney Tighe has built a strong reputation for helping accident victims recover compensation. Whether an accident is caused by a negligent operator, a defective watercraft or hazardous conditions, he provides experienced legal representation to help victims and their families pursue justice.

Main Causes Of PWC Accidents

Personal watercraft accidents occur for different reasons, but some of the most common causes include:

  • Operator inexperience: Many riders lack the necessary skills to control a PWC safely, leading to sudden stops, sharp turns and collisions.
  • Speeding: High speeds make it difficult to react to obstacles or other watercraft in time to prevent an accident.
  • Alcohol or drug use: Impaired operation significantly increases the risk of reckless behavior and poor judgment.
  • Failure to follow boating laws: Ignoring waterway regulations, such as no wake zones or right-of-way rules, contributes to dangerous encounters.
  • Mechanical failures: Defective parts or lack of maintenance can lead to sudden malfunctions while on the water.
  • Poor weather conditions: Strong currents, high winds and storms can make it difficult to maintain control of a PWC.

Victims injured in these accidents may have legal grounds to file a claim against the responsible party.

Types Of Boating Accident Injuries

PWC accidents can cause serious injuries due to the high speeds and lack of protective barriers. Some of the most common injuries include:

  • Traumatic brain injuries (TBI): Impact with another watercraft or a hard surface can cause severe head trauma.
  • Spinal cord injuries: A forceful fall into the water or a collision can result in serious back and neck injuries.
  • Lacerations and fractures: Contact with propellers, hard surfaces or debris can lead to deep cuts and broken bones.
  • Drowning and near-drowning injuries: Victims who are thrown into the water may suffer from oxygen deprivation if they are unable to resurface quickly.
  • Burns: Fuel leaks or explosions from defective watercraft components can cause burns.

Recovering from these injuries often requires extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation and time away from work. A personal injury lawyer can help victims recover compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

PWC/Boating Accident Statistics

Personal watercraft accidents are a concern in Florida, where boating is a popular recreational activity. Some key statistics highlight the risks:

  • According to the U.S. Coast Guard data, many incidents are linked to operators in the 11 to 20-year-old age group.
  • The majority of fatal PWC accidents involve collisions with other vessels.
  • Alcohol use is a factor in approximately one-third of all boating-related fatalities.
  • Many PWC accidents occur in crowded waterways where multiple vessels operate in close proximity.

Given these alarming statistics, victims of PWC accidents in South Florida should seek experienced legal representation to protect their rights and pursue fair compensation.

Florida PWC Accident Statistics

Florida’s extensive coastline, lakes and waterways make it one of the most active states for boating. As a result, PWC accidents occur frequently. According to recent data:

  • More than 20% of all boating accidents in Florida involve personal watercraft.
  • The majority of PWC accidents occur during the summer months and on weekends.
  • Over 80% of operators involved in PWC accidents had no formal boating safety training.
  • Many accidents happen due to rental companies failing to provide adequate safety instructions.

With these high accident rates, victims in Florida should work with a knowledgeable PWC lawyer for representation.

Cruise Line Accidents

While PWC accidents are common in Florida, cruise ship-related injuries are another legal issue affecting residents and tourists. Cruise line negligence, slippery decks, poorly trained staff or faulty equipment can lead to serious injuries while at sea. Passengers who suffer harm due to cruise line negligence can pursue a claim against the company.

Whether an injury occurs on a personal watercraft or a large cruise ship, maritime law is complex. An experienced attorney can help victims understand their rights and seek fair compensation.

Injured In A PWC Accident? Call Today

PWC accidents can lead to life-altering injuries, extensive medical expenses and emotional distress. Victims in West Palm Beach and South Florida need a reliable attorney to advocate for their rights and hold negligent parties accountable.

With a deep understanding of Florida’s boating laws and a track record of success, Tighe Law, is prepared to handle even the most complex PWC accident cases. Call 561-363-3947 or contact the firm online today for a free consultation on your case.