Maritime and Admiralty Law Attorney Robert C. Gross, P.A. Discusses The Common Occurrence of Boating Accidents on The Florida Waterways

Two recent watercraft collisions off of Siesta Key (Sarasota County) serve as reminders as to just how recurrent boating and jet ski accidents are on the Florida waterways.

The Herald-Tribune reports that four individuals were riding in a boat when two jet skis simultaneously broadsided it. The impact of the crash was so severe that the jet skis remained lodged in the hull of the boat after the collision. One of the boat's passengers was temporarily trapped beneath the wreckage before he was freed by another passenger. Fortunately, for the two riders and the boat passengers, none of the individuals who were involved sustained serious injuries.

Last month The Herald-Tribune also reported that another vehicle-jet ski collision also occurred in the approximate vicinity of the first crash—this time with more serious consequences for the rider. "The accident happened at about 4 p.m. in the pass between Lido Key and Siesta Key. The 27-year-old Hispanic man attempted to go over the wake of another vessel and fell. He was struck by a 26-foot cabin cruiser that could not avoid him." – Staff Report, The Herald Tribune, June 17, 2012. The jet ski operator was airlifted to the hospital.

No doubt, all accidents involving vessels and personal watercraft are reported in the Florida newspapers. And while there are far fewer boating accidents as motor vehicle crashes in the State of Florida, the injury and fatality rates are much higher. According to the most recent statistics compiled by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, in 668 reportable accidents, 389 people were injured. That figure does not include the 79 people who lost their lives in boating accidents. It's important to note that FFWCC includes single boat accidents and collisions when compiling its statistics.

Miami-Dade has the second highest boating accident rate in the State of Florida—second only to Monroe County. If you have been injured or a loved one has been killed in a boating collision, you may be entitled to damages. Boating accidents can result in hospitalization, incapacitation, lost work capacity, lost wages, pain, and suffering. To protect your legal rights and receive compensation for your losses, contact a reputable Florida attorney who is experienced in maritime and admiralty law.