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Jet Ski Accidents: Can You Sue the Rental Company?
Jet skis can make for a fun day on the lake, but that does not mean every rider will come away unscathed. Accidents happen, and the consequences of a collision on the water can be deadly. While it is natural to blame the parties involved in the crash primarily, you may have a viable case against the rental company as well.
Determining who was to blame for a jet ski accident is often complicated, but you don’t have to take on this investigation by yourself. The right attorney can help you not only determine who was to blame but also hold them accountable through the legal system.
When Rental Companies May Be Liable
Jet ski rental companies have a legal duty to protect customers from preventable harm. Unfortunately, this duty is not always met. Some of the ways these companies could be to blame for an accident include the following:
Poor Equipment Maintenance: Rental companies must regularly inspect and service their jet skis to ensure they function properly. If a crash occurs due to mechanical failure, the company may be liable for not addressing issues they should have known about.
Inadequate Safety Instruction: Operators are responsible for explaining basic safety procedures to operators, but many fail to do so. This could lead to dangerous accidents or situations where the riders lack the necessary life jackets on the water.
Negligent Rental Practices
A company that rents to underage, visibly intoxicated, or otherwise unqualified riders may be held accountable if that person causes an accident. In these situations, the company is expected to know better than to put a jet ski in the hands of a dangerous person.
Violation of Safety Regulations
Many states and municipalities enforce watercraft rental regulations. When companies breach these regulations or fail to meet certain safety standards, they could be found liable when accidents happen.
Common Jet Ski Accident Injuries
While jet ski accidents can happen in a variety of ways, there are some injuries that are more common than others. The part of the body that is harmed can vary from one accident to another, but some common injuries include the following:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Broken bones
- Lacerations
- Internal bleeding
- Sprains and strains
- Eye injuries
- Spinal cord damage
Of course, nothing is more serious in a jet ski accident than the threat of a fatal injury. A loss of life can occur due to a traumatic impact with another vessel, and there is always the risk of drowning to be aware of.
Learn How Clark Fountain Can Help
If you have been hurt in a jet ski accident, there could be multiple parties who are to blame. In addition to the other boaters involved in the crash, you might have a claim against the rental company as well. Reach out to Clark Fountain as soon as possible to discuss your case.
FAQ FOR Jet Ski Rental Accident Claims
- When can a jet ski rental company be held liable after an accident?
A rental company may be liable if it failed to maintain safe equipment, did not provide basic safety instructions, rented to unqualified users, or violated boating safety regulations. Determining liability often involves careful investigation and understanding of local and maritime law standards.
- What safety duties are required of jet ski rental operators?
Rental operators must provide well-maintained watercraft, working lifejackets, and comprehensive safety briefings before departure. Specific regulations may include age limits, safety equipment requirements, and rental capacity rules.
- How does improper maintenance affect an injury claim?
If poor maintenance causes or contributes to a jet ski crash—such as malfunctioning steering, throttle, or brakes—liability may fall on the rental operator or, sometimes, the equipment manufacturer.
- Does signing a waiver prevent an injured rider from filing a claim?
Not always. A liability waiver is not absolute, especially if the company was grossly negligent, broke safety laws, or misrepresented risks to riders. Legal advice is recommended to review waiver enforceability for specific cases.steinberglawfirm+1
- Is it possible to recover damages if the rider was partly at fault?
Yes, in many jurisdictions (including Florida), comparative negligence lets an injured person recover damages even if they were partially responsible, though their recovery may be reduced accordingly.rpfoley+1
- When might the manufacturer be liable instead of the rental company?
If a design flaw, manufacturing defect, or faulty component caused or worsened a crash, legal responsibility may rest with the equipment maker or parts supplier under product liability rules.alpizarlaw+1
- What injuries are common in jet ski rental accidents?
Frequent injuries include traumatic brain injury, fractures, spinal cord injury, severe lacerations, internal damage, and near-drowning or drowning events—especially when lifejackets are missing or ill-fitting.
- What evidence should be collected after a jet ski rental crash?
Document the scene, damage, injuries, witnesses, and retain all rental contracts, waivers, and safety instructions. Photos, videos, and official reports can critically support a future claim.
- What damages could be pursued in a rental accident case?
Possible compensation includes medical expenses, rehabilitative care, lost income, pain and suffering, permanent disability, and, in fatal cases, wrongful death damages for family members.
- When should you seek legal help after a jet ski rental incident?
Consult a legal professional experienced in watercraft accident cases as early as possible—while evidence and witness memories are still fresh and before deadlines under state or maritime law pass. Early legal involvement can help establish the correct parties at fault and protect your rights throughout the claims process.
