Jet skiing is an incredibly popular activity throughout Florida because of the state’s many waterways and the pleasant weather year-round. Many people own personal jet skis, while others rent them from jet ski companies.
Unfortunately, jet skis can be dangerous without the proper training and experience, when drivers take risks, or when jet ski operators behave in an unsafe way. If you or someone you love was harmed in an incident with a jet ski, you need to understand your legal options and pursue a claim for justice.
Diaco Law is here to help. Our experienced injury attorneys in Tampa have fought for injured victims for decades, and we know the rules affecting liability for losses. Give us a call today to schedule a free consultation and learn more about how we can help you.
Who is Responsible for Jet Ski Accidents?
Responsibility for jet ski accidents varies depending on the specifics of how the incident happened. Some of the parties who could potentially be held liable include:
- A jet ski driver who behaves unsafely. Speeding, reckless driving, and driving while intoxicated are all examples of reckless operation that could result in legal liability.
- A jet ski rental company. Rental companies can be held legally responsible for an accident if they fail to maintain the jet ski appropriately or if they allow an obviously unsafe rider to operate the watercraft. You can still pursue a claim even if you rent a jet ski and sign a liability waiver, if the jet ski company was negligent in maintaining the jet ski or allowed you to use it in unsafe conditions.
- A jet ski manufacturer. In some circumstances, a defect in the jet ski itself is the cause of an incident. To hold the manufacturer accountable, you must provide proof that there was a defect in the product that caused you to be harmed when the jet ski was used as intended.
You must identify the defendants, gather evidence, and make the right legal arguments to prove your claim. For example, a case against a jet ski manufacturer would be a product liability case, while a claim against a jet ski driver would be based on negligent operation.
Diaco Law can help you to identify all parties who may be to blame and can work with you to make a compelling case to maximize the chances of recovering compensation.
What to Do After a Jet Ski Accident
The steps you take immediately after a jet ski accident can have a significant impact on your health and your ability to recover compensation. If you or someone you love has been involved in a jet ski incident, here is what you should do:
- Seek medical attention immediately. Your health is the top priority; even if your injuries seem minor at first, some conditions, such as internal injuries or concussions, may not be immediately apparent. Seeing a doctor right away also creates an official medical record that can be critical evidence in your case.
- Report the accident. In Florida, jet ski accidents that result in injury, death, or significant property damage must be reported to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. Make sure law enforcement is contacted and that an official report is filed.
- Document the scene. If you are physically able to do so, take photos and videos of the accident scene, any visible injuries, the jet skis involved, and the surrounding area. Gather contact information from witnesses who saw what happened.
- Avoid giving statements to insurance companies. Insurance adjusters may contact you shortly after your accident and attempt to get a recorded statement. Be cautious; anything you say can be used to minimize your claim. Speak with an attorney before engaging with any insurer.
- Contact a Tampa jet ski accident lawyer. The sooner you reach out to an experienced lawyer, the sooner your legal team can begin preserving evidence and building your case. Evidence can disappear quickly, so time is of the essence.
How Can a Jet Ski Accident Lawyer in Tampa Help You?
At Diaco Law, our experienced jet ski accident attorneys will advocate for you in your fight for justice. Our team will:
- Gather evidence about the cause of the jet ski accident
- Identify defendants whom you can hold liable
- Obtain police reports, medical records, maintenance records, company policy manuals, and more
- Negotiate with the insurer of the at-fault parties to try to reach an out-of-court settlement
- Go to court on your behalf to fight for justice
Our legal team includes top-notch negotiators and skilled litigators who have recovered millions in compensation for victims both in and out of court. You can count on us to go the distance to get the money you need after your accident.
Contact Diaco Law Today
When you are dealing with the aftermath of a jet ski accident, the physical, emotional, and financial toll can feel overwhelming. Medical bills pile up, time away from work adds financial stress, and the pain of your injuries can affect every aspect of your daily life. You should not have to face all of that alone, and with Diaco Law in your corner, you do not have to.
Our attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay nothing unless we win your case. There is no financial risk in reaching out, and the sooner you contact us, the sooner we can get to work protecting your rights and pursuing the compensation you deserve.
Call us today to schedule your free consultation with a Tampa jet ski accident attorney so we can get to work on building your case and fighting for justice.