Jet Ski Accidents: How They Happen and How Riders Get Hurt

Why do jet skis collide so often?

Jet skis are fast, quick to turn, and often ridden in groups or close to other boats for fun. Riders weave through wakes, cut behind boats, and turn suddenly without looking. At 40 miles per hour, a jet ski covers about 60 feet every second. That leaves very little time to react when another rider turns across your path.

The rider also sits low, so chop, spray, glare, and other boats can hide an approaching craft until it is close.

What is off-throttle steering, and why does it matter?

Most jet skis steer by pointing a jet of water. No throttle means little or no jet, which means little or no steering. A frightened rider's instinct is to let go of the throttle and turn hard, which on many machines does almost nothing. Newer models have systems that help, but riders who do not understand this tend to go straight into the thing they were trying to avoid.

Why are passengers hurt so badly?

Passengers have nothing to hold but the driver or a strap, and they cannot see a sharp turn coming. They are thrown off in turns, wake jumps, and sudden stops. A passenger who falls off the back can also be seriously injured by the force of the water jet, which is why manufacturers warn riders and passengers to wear protective wetsuit bottoms. Many people never read that warning.

Why are rentals involved in so many accidents?

Rental fleets put powerful machines in the hands of people who may have never ridden one before, often after a short briefing. The post on jet ski and boat rental accidents covers what rental companies are expected to do.

What other factors show up?

• Alcohol. The same impairment that affects drivers on the road.
• Riding at night or near sunset. Many states prohibit jet ski operation between sunset and sunrise.
• Age. Many states set minimum ages for operators.
• No lanyard. If the kill switch lanyard is not attached to the rider, a thrown rider's machine can keep going.
• Riding near swimmers. Swim areas, beaches, and anchored boats are where riders and swimmers meet.

What do investigators look at after a jet ski accident?

Speed and position before impact, which way each rider was turning, who could see whom, damage to the machines, injuries, and phone or GPS data. Witness video is often the best evidence. Investigators also look at the rental briefing, the rider's experience, and any state age or education requirements.

Questions to ask your attorney

• Was the other rider old enough and properly certified under state law?
• Did the rental company follow its own briefing and safety rules?
• Can we get video from the marina, other boats, or nearby homes?
• Could a design or equipment problem have played a part?

Related

• Who Is at Fault in a Jet Ski Accident? The Rules Still Apply

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About the author

Captain Mitchell S. Stoller is a Master Mariner Unlimited, former Exxon tanker master, and former Los Angeles Harbor pilot. About Captain Stoller