Indianapolis Attorneys for Boating and Jet-Ski Collision Injuries
Sunny summer days lead many people to area bodies of water to cool off. With so many great options in the central Indiana area like Geist Reservoir, Eagle Creek Reservoir, Morse Lake, Lake Monroe, Lake Lemon, and the White River it’s easy to find a place to swim, boat, tube, canoe, or jet-ski. As you plan your day of fun in the sun, it is equally important to be aware of water safety rules.
The United States Coast Guard (USCG) compiles safety and injury data for recreational water craft including motor boats, personal watercraft like Jet-skis, and watercraft powered by paddle or sail like a canoe or kayak. The USCG counted 4,291 accidents that involved 658 deaths and 2,629 injuries as a result of recreational boating accidents in 2017. The top contributing factors to injury and death were operator inattention, improper lookout, operator inexperience, machinery failure, alcohol use, and excessive speed. It is important for all people enjoying the water to be aware of their surroundings regardless of whether they are onboard a watercraft, in the water, or on a dock or beach.
Geist Reservoir boating and water accidents
Media reports highlight the need to stay vigilant about water safety at popular local bodies of water. Geist Reservoir has been the scene of several accidents involving drowning, boat crashes, and jet ski crashes. In August 2019, authorities were called to Geist Reservoir on a report of a “tragic accident” involving a male who was in the water off the dock. First responders were able to pull the man out of the water within minutes of the call and transport him to the hospital where he later died.
Earlier this summer, Geist Reservoir was the scene of a hit-and-run involving two boats. One boater reported being on the water early on a Sunday morning when he saw a boat approaching very fast. The operator of that boat crashed into the back end of the man’s boat and sped off. The man did not sustain serious injuries and is still searching for the hit-and-run boater.
Morse Reservoir boating and water accidents
Jet-skis and other personal watercraft are also a popular choice of water enthusiasts. It is important that anyone who operates a personal watercraft know how to safely use the vehicle on the water and know water safety rules.
July 2019, a crash involving two jet-skis on Morse Reservoir left one rider suffering from serious head and facial injuries. Conservation officers on the scene were told that two jet-ski operators were trying to jump the wake of another boat when one jet-ski went airborne and landed on the operator of the other jet-ski.
Indiana Department of Natural Resources provides all residents information related to the Indiana Boating Laws and Regulations along with boater safety videos so everyone can prepare for a safe and fun summer on Indiana waterways.
Indiana Jet-ski accident lawsuit
Our attorneys represented a couple who was injured in a jet-ski accident on Morse Reservoir. Two jet-ski operators were out on the water when one slowed to look for oncoming boating traffic. The second operator was following closely behind and failed to steer away from the lead jet-ski. The second jet-ski slammed into the passenger and operator of the first jet-ski. Both riders, a husband and wife, of the first jet-ski sustained serious injuries including broken ribs, spinal cord injuries, abdominal trauma, and nerve injuries. This couple will have lifelong physical challenges as a result of this crash. Case settled for confidential amount.
Hiring an experienced boat accident or jet-ski accident lawyer
Victims of watercraft accidents need a seasoned personal injury attorney who has experience in handling these types of lawsuits. Our attorneys will fight for your rights to get you compensation for your medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost wages and future earnings. We are trial lawyers and will work hard to negotiate a fair settlement and will be prepared to take your claim to trial if necessary. If you or someone you know has been injured in a boating or jet-ski collision, contact CohenMalad, LLP attorneys for a free case evaluation and to discuss your legal rights and options.
